You Ought to be Mine Season 2

Prologue

I pick the Coffee mug and sip the hot liquid once, staring at the file which is lying before me on the table. I havnt opened it yet. I fear to read the contents of this file which was just delivered to me today morning in this Country where I have been living past 10 months.

"Hi Khushi"

That unknown voice breaks my stance and I look up to see who it is. I remember this face.. Of course I do.. I get up from the couch keeping the Mug down smile happily.

"Naina? Oh my God.. What are you doing in San Fransico?", I greet her with a warm hug..

We were childhood buddies but since Naina got married 2 years ago, we lost each others contact.





"My husband had some business here. I came along. Kind of a vacation for me", Naina proudly stated and suddenly I see a surprise in her eyes as she looks at the chain in my neck.

"Gosh.. Khushi? You got married? When? And.. To whom?", she asks curiously.

I feel a cold electric wave shooting inside my body as if after a long time someone had actually touched my aching nerve. I am speechless. I am falling short of words. My eyes roll looking for an answer.

"Come on Khushi.. Tell me his name at least.. ", she insists.

I myself havnt taken that name from months.. But to ignore Naina's question will raise doubts in her mind and I dont want to lose a friend at this hour.

"Arnav Singh Raizada.. He is my husband.", I declare but with a cold voice. An unknown rage, fear and nervousness surround me which I try to hide by faking a smile at her. I am aware Naina must have known him. He is that famous in India and abroad. Before Naina questions me more about him, I change the topic.

"Let's grab a coffee for you"

"Yea Sure, come"

I pick the file from the table and keep it back in my purse. I will read it later. For now, I have someone known to me, with whom I would like to spend a good time.. a Happy time.!!

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 1

San Fransisco - Coffee Shop

I stir the coffee which has now become cold, all again. Naina notices the weak expressions on my face. She is a face reader, I know. She places her hand on mine above the table with compassion.

"How did you end up with a man like Arnav Singh Raizada?", she hits a direct question. I am not surprised. Anyone who knew me and him both would ask the same.

"Doesnt matter Naina.. Lets talk something else", I requested her frankly.

This is one old topic I hate to discuss about. His name churns my stomach , hurting it badly.

"Sorry Khushi... I shouldnt interfere in your personal life. But as an old friend of yours, I can see that grief on your face, I can read the pain you are trying to hide from me. Just open up your feelings. If nothing else I might at least give you some courage.", Naina insists.

Her words weakend me more. My fingers fiddles with the stirer. She sighs in disappointment seeing how uncomfortable I am getting now.

"Okay, forget all that. Tell me how is your Nani?", Naina did change the topic but it didnt lessen my wounds.
"Nani passed away Naina. Few months back.", a lone tear falls on my lap which I quickly wipe off to avoid getting emotional.
"What? Ohh God. I .. I am so sorry Khushi. I didnt know.", she apologizes.
"Thats okay Naina"
"But what happened to her ? Was she ill?"
"Heart attack"

Tears moist my eyes. Naina sits next to me and gives me a hug. She knows my bonding with Nani was too strong.

"It's Okay Khushi. What has happened.. we cannot change. She will never like seeing you weeping for her. Stay strong", she consoles me and I try my best to compose myself again. I wipe my tears and finally pick my purse to leave.

"Sorry Naina.. But I should leave now."
"You sure?", she asks softly.
"Yes. Thats my card. Call me anytime, we shall meet again if possible." I Pass her my card which she happily takes and bids me bye. I leave the place holding the jacket in my hand.

*****************

I place the Jacket on my bed. I am back in my cozy apartment. I am an Event Manager, specialised in organising Live Events in Fashion Industry. I have been awarded as the Best Event Organiser in California this year. I am famous. I have my own identity. But this is Half of me. The other half of mine is still in Delhi, India, where I am recognised as the wife of a famous Fashion Industry Tycoon Arnav Singh Raizada, the most ruthless man I have ever met in my life.

STOP!! I remind myself to stop thinking about him anymore. But there isn't a day which have passed without remembering those bitter moments life gifted me with him. But now things will soon be fine. I have already decided what is the best for me and this time I wont change my mind.

I unzip my purse and take out the envelope which I still havnt opened. It has my future . A good and happy future. A life without Arnav Singh Raizada's existence in it. I finally take a deep breathe and open the envelope. I am shocked to see the contents of it. This is not what I was expecting. It should have contained the Legal papers signed thoroughly by him. But this is not that. It has a Return Flight Ticket instead from San Fransico to New Delhi of Next Week booked on my name and with it there is a small note. I quickly open the note to see what is written.

"DIVORCE???????????? In your dreams Mrs Khushi Singh Raizada.!! Stop making fun of yourself and me in the society. Come back. We can renegotiate our marriage vows."

I am so much frustrated reading this note. I know it's not his hand writing. It must be his right hand Aman Mathur who wrote it for him. Aman  is the second man whom I hate the most after that Arnav Singh Raizada. I throw the flight tickets on the bed thinking what best I can do to get things in my favour . There is no one out there who can help me get out of this mess. I am alone. I have no one by my side who can think rationally and from my angle. Nani was the only person who would still have given me some solution but even she wasn't alive now and not to forget it was only for my Nani that I had landed myself in this marriage mess with Arnav Singh Raizada.

I keep thinking about this for hours and finally find the best way to conclude things. To catch a lion, the hunter sometimes have to enter its den. I cannot get the Divorce sitting here in San Fransisco. I will have to go back, give the marriage a legal end and come back here to continue my profession.

All this seems simple to talk but I know its equally dangerous. Meeting Arnav Singh Raizada again can even cost me a lifetime. He will throw all possible tantrums on me to ensure I behave as per his wishes. He will play around with my patience and try to rule me. He will humiliate me before people, he will hurt me by his words and he might even threaten me to keep me by his side forever. But I am not weak , I never was. Running away from that life was my choice and going back to him now to earn my freedom is still my choice, not his. I will ensure he gives me what I want.

************

I don't waste the flight ticket he sent me. I pack my basic stuff, inform my Boss about my short leave which will be extended up to a month and then I leave for India. I have a lot to teach myself, prepare before I meet him.  My Nani's house is locked ever since I left for San Fransisco. I plan to stay there during this one month. It might need some thorough cleaning but I can manage it.

My flight landed in Delhi International Airport at night 09:30. The air outside felt so soothing. It's such a wonderful feeling to be in your country. I would never have left this place but at that moment, months ago, I couldn't think anything better. I wanted to flee away from him. Even his shadow would have engulfed me into a black world of slavery, this is what I believed that time and ran away from. I don't repent my decision. I am happy in San Fransisco doing Event Management, this had always been my favourite Profession.

Okay... now getting a Cab to reach my Nani's home as soon as possible should be my motto. I am already very tired of the journey and in desperate need of some sleep. I wave my hand outside the arrivals for the Cab and surprisingly a Cab halts right before me and the driver gets down to pick my luggage. Before I  can get inside the Cab, I find someone else also getting down from that same Cab.

"Aman???", I almost scream seeing him.

Aman Mathur, the man who gives the best outcomes to every cunning ideas given by his Boss cum friend ASR was here at the Airport ?? Why?

Aman: Welcome back Khushi Bhabhi..

He passed the yellow tulips bouquet to me which I deny to take. He smirks.

"Tell your ASR he doesnt have  to impress me by sending flowers."

I want to make myself very clear.

Aman: Getting the flowers  was my idea. ( he defends)

I do not agree to this. He is lying. He knows very well to win things for ASR. Aman removes some chocolate from his pocket and gestures at me.

Aman : Forget flowers.  At least dont deny for the chocolate.

I frown at him but then I give up. I pop the delicious dark chocolate in my mouth. Probably he knows I can never say a NO to chocolates. But did I do good by accepting it? Did AMan had any motto behind making me eat it? I sigh. After marrying a man like Arnav Singh Raizada , I had started to spy on every normal people as well these days. I feel little dizzy. I dont know why. Aman quickly helps me stand firm. He had probably expected this and hence is smiling which I can see as my eyes close.

Aman: Sorry Bhabhi..

I dont know why he said a Sorry to me. I faint.

***************

When I wake up again. I find myself in a dark room, there are no lights here except the small scented candle which was burning at the corner. I am scared of darkness. It makes me feel weak, fragile. I try to get up but very soon realise my arms are tied. Where the hell am I? WHo got me here ? I try to recollect things and the last person I remember meeting was Aman. Was I kidnapped? Did that chocolate had some drug to make me unconscious? THis is ridiculous. How can Aman stoop so low? I scream aloud for help almost twice . Finally the door before me opens up. There is a bright light outside which suddenly hits my eye and I am unable to take that much of light at this moment after being in darkness for so long. I see the shadow of a man advancing towards me from that door. I am hell scared .Why are my intuitions telling me I am trapped? This feeling isnt so good. THis man, whoever he is, reaches the Recliner I am been tied to and then places his hands on either sides of my head, pinning me there. Thats when I see his face..

"Aap??", I make a dreadful expressions seeing none other than Arnav Singh Raizada himself.

He passes a wide smirk and keeps staring in my eyes.

"Ohh.. So you did all of this.. ??( I take a pause and question back).. You drugged me? How dare you ? "

He doesnt answer anything. I can read pride in his eyes for getting what he wanted.

"Am I.. Am I kidnappeD?", this is the most foolish question I blurt out only to find him smirking hard.

I am telling you, I have seen this look of his before. It only signifies one thing. He is going to screw me again. I wont let that happen. I struggle to set myself free but in vain. He is still close , I can hear his heart beats too.

"Untie me at once", I demand with courage. I am looking straight in his eyes now. We both have given such angered stares to each other before too and like always, that one similarity in this moment was, my eyes moist with pain and his eyes red with rage.

He had still not open his mouth to speak. Good for me as I know even if he speaks it will be rubbish and only hurt me if nothing else. A strand of my hair tickles my cheek, I cant even move it away as my hands are tied. I am wondering how to work on it when suddenly his fingers hold that strand and tuck it gently behind my ear making me gulp hard.

"Let's talk some business now", he finally utters.

BUSINESS? What does he mean by that? And that voice was so rough. I can feel the intensity in his tone which signified he wasnt going to speak something I would like to hear. He is a monster who can only work on hurting others, especially me.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 2

"Let's talk some business now", he finally utters.
BUSINESS? What does he mean by that? And that voice was so rough. I can feel the intensity in his tone which signified he wasnt going to speak something I would like to hear. He is a monster who can only work on hurting others, especially me.
I tried not to let his mental strength overpower my physical weakness. I kept looking in his eyes. These pair of eyes had always made me fear.
"You have always succeeded in making things ugly between us, havnt you?", he questioned sincerly.

I choose not to reply. I will save my comment for the end.

"By asking for a Divorce , you have willingly gambled with your own happiness Khushi", he warns me.

I am not very sensitive to this threatening anymore. Living in San Fransico I have at least learned how to show yourself strong if not feel like one.
"I dont feel married", I be clear of my thoughts. Yes thats what I have felt all these months. I have no shame in saying that to him.
I see him smirking hard but then clenching his jaw before responding.
"I never wanted to distance. You pushed me away every time I came to you "
I knew it.. I knew he would only care for that one thing in marriage.
"Marriage is more than that Mr Arnav Singh Raizada. I have no feelings for you. I never had", I retort.

There is a total silence in the room, our eyes still not looking away from each other. He unties my hands and I am set free. I look at the bruises created due to the tying on my wrist. Before I could even look them properly, he holds my wrist and point my fingers to me.
"Then why wear this ring still? Why are you wearing the Mangalsutra and Sindoor? Do you mind explaining it to me?", he asks.
His questions are valid. I shove off his hands from mine and step back.
"These are just not some mere things to me. They have a deeper meaning and I dont want to disrespect them more by our worthless ties. The day we seperate, these things will go off me forever. It's like a burden I am carrying everyday in my life just to keep values and decency of our relationship"

Whatever I speak is true. This is what I feel for the marital accessories of mine.

"ENOUGH!!", he screams aloud stepping again to take him towards him but this time I dont let him touch me.
"Your outrageous behaviour could scare me earlier, but not anymore.", I try moving past him but he is too quick to hold my hand and get me back in the old place, HIS ARMS!! I struggle again.
"I see Success and some money has overpowered your mind. Thats where you are getting all those Guts from to talk like this with me."
"You think the whole universe revolves around you Arnav? I am not like you. If I know to earn success, I know to keep my feet on the ground too. At least people dont comment behind me for my egoistic behaviour.", I dont fear to say that but looks like he is Off his mood now.

"You are the one who walked out from my house making me a laughingstock in my family. Dont push me for Divorce , Khushi. Thats the last thing on earth I would grant you. "
"You are behaving like a Villan now", she blurted loud and clear to him.
She could see him smirk more wide and lean closer to her.
"I was never your Hero." ( he whispered but it was more of a mock)
"Thats because you were always walking on the bottleneck of right and wrong. I am tired of judging you and your actions. Just free me from all of this. Please. "

Her eyes became moist instantly but it never could change his decisions. He was always so stern and confident about what he wanted from her and what least he could offer her too.

He didnt respond back to that, instead he pulled his suit to neaten it. He scanned her again from head to toe with his intimate gaze.

"Make yourself comfortable in this house, everything will be at your feet if asked. But..If you dare walk out of that door, you will pay up high for your entire life .. Mrs Khushi Singh Raizada"( he purposely addressed her that way, like he did in their initial days of marriage. He knew she hated to hear it from him always)

He took a turn to leave. I simply followed him. We were now out of that dark room, I could feel my eyes hurting receiving the sudden light here but I managed to see where I was. It was his Farm house.. The same place where they stayed after their marriage. This house had memories which can never be forgotten.

"I am not going to stay in this place, you hear that?", I manage to tell him with an abrupt voice.

Arnav turned around.
Arnav: Where do you plan to stay then? In your Nani's house which is getting renovated at the moment?
I am surprised to get this news from him.
Khushi: Renovated??
Arnav Singh Raizada had no time to explain, he plainly looked at Aman Mathur who came between them to respond and Arnav fleed the spot.
Aman: Bhabhi.. The House couldnt sustain the recent storm which came last month. There were numerous leaks in that house which needed serious repair. So ASR gave us the orders to renovate the house again and make it usable.

I understand the seriousness of this repair but I am still wondering why wasnt I informed about it earlier? That puts me into another trouble. Do I really have to stay here ?? In this house again? With a monster like him?

I see my luggage being carried in the Master bedroom, I scream aloud at the maid.

Khushi: Dont touch my bags..
I run and snatch the bags from her. Aman follows me.
Aman: Bhabhi.. They are just arranging your stuff in your room. Please allow them to.. Khushi: That's not my room. Aman: But its the Master bedroom.. Khushi: Exactly, thats why it's not my room. I am not staying with that man .
Arnav Singh Raizada who was now by the door to leave the house had heard it loud and clear. He stopped and turned at me. I was on the stairs with Aman.
Arnav: I am returning back here in an hour Aman.. I want my wife and her bags both arranged in my room or else consider yourself fired.!!

Aman smiled. He had heard this word "FIRED" a thousand times from ASR but he never actually had to lose his job. His loyality and hard work had always won ASR's heart.

Khushi: Aman I have come here for seeking a Divorce. Not to spend vacation with him. So obviously I wouldn't prefer staying with him in one room.

Arnav Singh Raizada was about to step towards me again fisting his fingers but Aman gestured him to stop.

Aman: ASR.. wait.. Let.. let me handle this.. Actually Bhabhi has just travelled so much ..Her brain isnt working in the right direction.. She needs some rest ..

I am not surprised to hear that excuse. He has always tried supporting me from Arnav's wrath. But I cannot forget that he also was the one who landed me into this troublesome marriage . He is just a toy which Arnav uses as his per his convenience. I see Arnav giving me a cold stare and a warning look not to even imagine of going against his words. But does he think I will accept his offer of staying in one room? Never.

The moment he is out of that house, I drag my bag towards the same room where I was been tied to. It's a guest room on that same floor where the Master bedroom is located. Aman follows me trying to convince.

Aman: Bhabhi.. Just listen to me once .
I stop in rage and turn back.
Khushi: You better don't talk to me. You drugged me Aman? Only because you were told by him to kidnap me ? Shame on you. This is so disgraceful. His one word.. however good or bad.. you always fulfil it in a blink. If Arnav is a devil you are not less than that. You cannot help me but atleast stop pushing me to him always. Today you have lost that little respect also which I had for you.

I can see Aman is hurt with what I said but so be it. Has he ever cared what I am going through? I enter the guest room with my bag and lock it from inside.

****************
I am sitting on the bed , trying not to weep. I dont want to cry and lower my energy. He purposely has started the renovation of Nani's house. He knew that would the first place I would look to stay. I can afford to stay in Hotel but not for too long. I could not get all my savings here from San Fransisco. And I have no idea how much early I can convince this man for giving me the Divorce. So what else is left? Where can I go ? I quickly remember Naina. She must have returned back to India as well. I have her card. She can help me. I quickly check my purse, find her card and dial her number. She answers.

Khushi: Naina. I am in Delhi. And.. I needed your help.
Naina: Yea Khushi tell me how can I help you?
Khushi: Uhh.. I needed some accommodation to stay here for almost a month. Do you know anyone or any place like that?
Naina: Accommodation? That too in Delhi?? Arent you staying with your husband Khushi? He owns so many apartments and Bunglows there.

I knew Naina would show her confusion.

Khushi: I will explain you all that later Naina. Right now I need some shelter.
Naina: Hmm.. Okay. But Khushi I have still not come back to India. I will take a week more. But you dont worry . You can stay in my house . My in laws are there and I will inform them about you coming. Once me and my husband are back , we will find a better accommodation for you.

I am not liking this idea to stay in Naina's Sasuraal in her absence.

Khushi: Ohh I thought you must have returned . I am sorry Naina but I dont want to trouble your in laws. I will manage my stay for a week somewhere but when you return, do give me a call.
Naina: But where will you manage for a week ?

Her concern was right.

Khushi: Dont worry.. I have a place to stay. Thanks for the help. Will call you later. Bye.

I disconnect the call. All my options are closed . I will have to stay here for 7 days atleast until Naina returns. I dont know how Arnav Singh Raizada will turn my life in these 7 days but I can protect myself to the best. I cannot lose hopes now. With that new thought, I get up and open my bag to unpack it. I take some clothes in my hand and slide the closet to keep the stuff inside . The closet is almost empty but I still find some shining dress of a women falling from the closet at my feet. I pick it up . It's an off shoulder gown. What is a women cloth doing in this house ? What is that supposed to mean? Who stayed here in my absence? Was Arnav involved with some other woman? I have no doubts he can do it. He is always been linked with so many models who work for him . Should I get affected ? Probably not . I throw that dress in the bin and arrange my clothes. I feel like a stranger in this house which is supposed to be mine. At least mine till I get the Divorce. But however hard I try not to hurt myself thinking about the link ups Arnav had in my absence , I still feel the pain within me. I cant help..I am a woman after all and a wife too.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 3

Arnav Singh Raizada tugged off his tie while pouring the drink in a glass. Aman entered his office cabin, just minutes later .

Aman: ASR woh. .
Arnav (pointing a finger at him): Not now Aman.. I need to be alone .

He gulped the Brandy down his throat picking the blueprint of his new project to concentrate on it.

Aman: Am I just a Clown for you husband wife?

Arnav gave him a deep stare.

Aman: Come on stage.. Do my task and then remain at the backstage until the next show doesnt pop up?
Arnav: I am not in a mood for another argument Aman. Spare me.
Aman shrugged his shoulders.
Aman: Any Next orders for me?
Arnav: Whatever commitments Khushi has in San Fransico, Cease them all. She isnt returning back there.
Aman: It would need her signatures too.
Arnav: ( in frustration): Then get it dammit!! DO I have to tell you each and everything now? Cant you use your brains Aman?

Aman had seen ASR in the worst mood but today that rage on his face was different than before.. He moved out of ASR's cabin, shutting the door behind him, giving that man adequate privacy he needed.

Arnav sat on the Couch, pouring another drink for himself and gulped it down.

"I was never your HERO" (he recalled saying that to her)

Arnav shut his eyes. He had always been fuzzy about this rejection from Khushi. What did he lack that she kept keeping this distance between them always? He was a man whom every woman would desire to have. He had power, money, looks, attitude and most importantly he was famous. A woman like her who was born to a middle class family can never even think of reaching next to him as his wife. But she always overlooked his capabilities and instead just kept him at one arm distance from her. And when that didnt work, she chose to flee to San Fransisco. It would have taken just few days for him to get her back, as he had got to know her whereabouts very soon. But he chose not to invade her space then. It hurt his manly ego to hunt his wife and get her back to him. So he lived painfully all these months just waiting for the right time when she will contact him again. Luckily it did happen, though it wasnt upto the mark.She contacted him not to settle their lives again but for a DAMM DIVORCE!!

He threw the glass and the bottle of Brandy down on the floor, breaking it into pieces. He again leaned his head back and shut his eyes to calm down his anger. He had to completely become passive before he nears his wife again. He doesnt want her to push him off because of his hyperness.

*******************

Next Morning

Only I knew how I managed to sleep last night. I was afraid he had the keys to the guest room and might stalk anytime. I might call myself lucky enough not to fall in a situation where he forced me to stay in his room. I had no idea if he was even back here or not. I lazily got up from the bed. My head was spinning. I hadnt eaten anything after her last inflight meal. I was hungry but I cannot trust the food they provide me here until I cooks it myself. Who knows if they drug me again. !

Despite of the fear I had for facing Arnav again, I came out of my cocoon, my room, and then headed to the Kitchen. I was very well aware of every corner of this house. I had stayed here for a week or so when we were newly married. I entered the kitchen only to get bewildered seeing Arnav making the cereals bowl ready. Was it really him? The man who never entered this room of the house was actually making something?

I didnt wanted to disturb him but the tinkling of my anklets caught his attention. He looked at me with a stern face. I was hoping he doesnt ask me why I landed up in the guest room last night despite of frequent warning. My brain suddenly reminded me of that Satin dress I found in the Closet of the Guest room. But I chose not to ask that and make a fool of myself. Either he would lie or he would think I am jealous of his extra relationships. Why should I bother when I am no longer interested in this man? Infact I never was .!!

"Am I ever going to get a chance of eating the food my wife cooks ? Or should I always depend on the maids here?", he asks.

I dont answer. I walk inside and open the refrigerator. The Tetrapack juices would do. No one can think of playing with its content. I am about to sip it when he stops me and yanks me towards the two - seater dining table. He forces me to sit and then pulls a chair for him next to me.

"How dare you do that?", I question him with rage.
"Stop fussing and eat."

He brings the spoon full of cereals to my lips. I look otherside. This is the first time he is making an attempt to feed me. He never bothered in that one week of our marriage if I have eaten my meals or not.

"EAT.. Before I stuff it forcibly", he warns me.
"What else can I expect a man like you to do? You can just bully me, drug me and treat me like a doormat. But I have changed Arnav Singh Raizada. I am much more stronger than I left from here", I retort.

He keeps the spoon back in the bowl and looks at my face.

"Let me see how strong you have turned out. Hit me.!!"( he commands)

I am not very sure what I am suppsoed to do? Hit him? Like really? My blood is boiling from inside, my nerves are tensed and they can ease up if I fulfil his demand. Yea I wish to smack his face.. For everything he done to me..

"Come on.. You wont get this opportunity again. Hit me"( he is instigating me .. I am almost convinced)

I  dont break our eye lock but raise my fist to hit his face.. The moment I raise it, he catches my fist and pulls me close to him. .I place my other arm on his chest for support. I would fall otherwise. We are close enough.. I can see some intenseful gazes from him that time. He managed to fail my punch..

"You got some skills Sweetheart"( he says huskily looking in my eyes )

I push him away and sit straight on my chair looking elsewhere. I dont wish to see him but I can say he is smirking at me. For my helplessness.

"I like this new fierceness in you. Where did you learn it from?", he asks me
"Any woman who wants to protect herself from a monster like you would learn it automatically"

He isnt happy knowing my answer.

"Then take one free advice. Never try punching me on my face again. This time I caught your arm, next time you will land in a major trouble Khushi." he is offended probably

"What else can I expect from a man like you apart from giving trouble to others?"

I have to backanswer all his questions. I have decided that. He again brings the spoon towards my lips.

Can we have a decent conversation at least while having meals?", his voice was getting rough.
"You are forcing me to eat when I am not a percent hungry", I retorted moving his arm away from my lips.
"You are starving since last night Khushi", he politely replied but that hadnt mellowed down his anger yet.
"Stop showing as if you care."

He was going to say something horrible in reply to that but the phone call on his mobile saved that conversation. I could read the name flashing over it. "HOME".. Thats what it read. He gave me a glimpse and picking his phone he walked away. He would always do that. Even after having in laws, surprisingly I had never met them, not even on our marriage. They never wanted to see me nor did Arnav Singh Raizada took any interest in closing this distance between me and them ever. I was pretty clear in few days of our marriage that they didnt wanted their Son to marry me. This marriage was against their wishes too.

He came back in few minutes, I dont know why I was even sitting there ? I should have resumed back to my room. He sits next to me and keeps his mobile back on the table.

"I have to go. But you dont leave the premises without my permission. Tell Aman he will get things for you."
"Be assured. I am not going at least for the next 7 days till I find some other accomodation. After that even you wont be able to stop me.", I  challenge him.

His eyes spill fire at me, I can feel that heat emanating from his body too.

"Whoever offers you help after 7 days will be bankrupted. If you want that to happen, leave this house with pleasure."

His warning have always made me shiver. But this time images of Naina and her husband coming on roads because of my silliness flashed in my mind. I saw him smirking. He had probably understood that I have realised the consequences.

"Thats not going to stop me from asking for a Divorce.", I manage to speak though stammering.
"Yea. Why not. Keep asking for it. But to grant it or not will always be my decision." he smirked and picking his phone left out of the Kitchen. I throw a spoon behind him in frustration.

********************

No.. I cant sit like that and wait for things to happen my way.  But what else can I do? If I think of leaving this house in next 7 days and stay with Naina, Arnav might hurt that family. He has that power to control people's life. Afterall he has money and high level contacts. He can do anything. But my decision of Divorce is final. I cannot step back. If I dont get it easily from him, I will have to fight. I desperately need some lawyer who can help me understand how can I fight in this situation and get things happen to my satisfaction.

I run to the Telephone directory to find some good lawyer in the city. I find a few best ones but I am sure Arnav Singh Raizada must know them. And even if I hire one of them, he will easily manipulate things and turn the situation in his favour. I will have to find someone whom I can trust and who is strong enough to get me out of this marriage. After a long research I get one name " Sheetal Raheja". She is practicing law from past 8 years. I have read some comments about her in the social media too and looks like she is good. She can help me. I dial her number which is answered by her secretary. I give very few details asked from me for the appointment. I dont want to take any risk of Arnav Singh Raizada knowing about this until I have actually hired Sheetal Raheja. I get an appoinment of the next day afternoon 03:00pm. Sounds cool to me because at this hour Arnav will be at work. I can easily go and meet her.

I take a deep sigh and lean my head back on the couch. I can see the maids around cleaning the house, few busy in preparing the Lunch.. Even after having so many people around I feel lonely. I have always be awarded by this gift. My childhood passed having only Nani beside me who raised me and made me what I am today. I had always wanted a big joint family to live with and since I didnt get that from birth, I thought at least I will marry a man who has a joint family. Though my marriage did happen, I am still alone.

********************

AR Office Building

Arnav Singh Raizada managed to meet his family in Raizada house where he was questioned about the return of Khushi to which he kept his lips zipped. He didnt wanted to get this family in picture until he clears his stand with his wife. Having an argument again at home, he left for his work, the only place where he feels needed.

He walked in his cabin, all frustrated and tired. Last night he had fallen asleep in his cabin. It was just few hours ago today that he had returned to the farm house where Khushi is and now he is back to work. He took out his suit and hung it to his chair asking his secretary to get a Strong Black Coffee for him without sugar. The moment he sat, Aman entered.         

Aman: Hello ASR.. How is it going?

Arnav managed to keep his pitch low and kept looking at his laptop screen waiting for it to start.

Arnav: Life's screwed up Aman. What else you want to know?
Aman sighed in disappointment.
Aman: Uhh.. I want to know if I am fired or still having this job?
Arnav gave him a sarcasting look. Why the hell was Aman asking that?
Aman: You only told me if you dont find Khushi bhabhi in your Master bedroom last night, I am fired. So? Did she .. Stay with you ?

Arnav logged in to his emails.

Arnav: I didnt check that. I spent the Last night here. Overdrunk.
Aman: You have to screw things up always, dont you ASR?
Arnav: Shut up Aman !!
Aman: It's been 10 long months that Khushi bhabhi wasnt here. LAst night you should have made something special for you guys which you failed to do. Who knows? May be your little efforts in this marriage might click the chemistry between you both and she stops asking for a Divorce?

Arnav was just listening.. He liked the idea though.

Aman: Anyways.. Regarding the commitments she has in San Fransico.. I found out that she is bound by some contract of 1 year, and already 6 months have passed which means she needs to finish the next 6 months too. Until then she cant quit that role.
Arnav: (gritting his teeth): Which company?
Aman: Umm.. Nicholson Group. It's an Event Management Company. Incorporated in the year 2006 and ..
Arnav ( interrupting): HAve a word with the Managing Director and if they arent willing to wave off that contract, then we are buying it!!

Aman was highly surprised..

Aman: You will buy an Event Management Company ASR? We dont have any links to this kind of Business.
Arnav: So what? We are growing.. We outsourced our Event Management contracts to third parties, henceforth we will have our own firm to do it. Talk to them..

He got up from the Chair and walked to the little personal bar counter in his cabin to pour a drink.

Arnav: I dont want Khushi to cross the walls of our marriage Aman..I want her for myself.

Aman was getting serious now..

Aman: Yea. I know.. Have heard that a lot from you ASR.. But why? You dont love her.. I know that too. So why is she even needed? This question has always haunted my mind. I know everything about you and her in and out except this one fact. Why is she so important to you as your Wife?

There was a little smirk on Arnav's face as he poured his favourite drink in the glass. He stirred the drink gently , seeing the way it blended with the Crushed ice.. He never answered this to anyone. So even if Aman or anyone else asks him a thousand times why not free Khushi than keeping her tied to this unwanted marriage, they will only get his silence.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 4

I sit on the Wooden chair looking at the Sky. It's dark. I have always been afraid of dark but not when I am under the Sky and watching those twinkling stars. Nani always kept telling me when a person dies, he or she becomes a Star. I know the most bright one among all must be her. I cuddle to the stuffed toy which has been a part of me since I was 12. Yes. This toy was presented to me by Nani on my birthday and I was used to sleeping next to it. I still do sometimes.

My toy is suddenly snatched by someone. I curse under my breathe and get up from the wooden chair only to find Arnav Singh Raizada holding it and watching it like he saw some ugly thing.

"Stop using toys to cuddle. You have a whole huge husband around now"

He had to make it ugly by his talk. He had no control on his nonsense double meaning talks.

"Give it back"

I extend my arm to get a hold of my toy, but he catches it and pulls me on him. The toy sandwiched between us.

I was terrified when his gaze looked so passionately as if he was reading my mind in and out. He had a firm hold on my wrist which he had pinned at my back.

"It is so ridiculous that I have to spend time with you under one roof, inhale the same air which you breathe", he muttered.
That's what I hated him for. I know he doesn't like to be bonded in a relationship like this for long. This is nothing. I have heard more worse dialogues from him on my first night of marriage. I struggle to get away.

"Why are you hurting yourself so much then. Just one signature and we both are saved from this unwanted relationship", I try to put some sense to him.

His mood turns off but his eyes are still on me. I can feel his grip on my wrist tightening.

"You still haven't Shred that Divorce thought from your pea sized brain?", he asks in anger.

I hear the maid calling out my name and suddenly I get enough energy to push him away and help myself from feeling embarrassed before the servant of this house. Arnav isn't happy. He throws my soft toy away for the unwanted untrusion from the Servant. The maid gets inside on my orders and hands over my mobile phone which I had forgot downstairs. She tells me about the call I was been getting few minutes ago. She leaves and I check my phone. Arnav is still around. I pick my soft toy too dusting it. I don't expect Arnav to consider the sentiments I have for this toy. I find whose call I was getting a while ago and then dial the number.

Khushi: (on call): Andy.. Sorry I missed your call. Anything urgent?? ( pause).. Yea right I am stuck up here. Wont make it until 3 more weeks. Just email me the event details I will see how I can help sitting here. Alright? Fine.. Bye..

I disconnect my official call and then see Arnav again.

"Andy?? Andrea Morgan right??", he asks.

I am surprised how he knows this name. I am already doubting his intentions now..

"How do you know? Are you playing with my professional commitments Arnav?? Mind you, I wont spare you if you even try that", I warn him but seems he doesn't believe in having a conversation with me on this topic. He gets inside the room from the balcony where I am still shouting at him to listen. He pulls the tie out roughly and then starts unbuttoning the shirt.

"Change in your master bedroom.. This is my room", I warn him again.

He doesn't give a damm to my words. I feel uncomfortable as he doesn't stop his actions. I turn around. My breathing fastens. He probably notices that. I shouldn't have stayed here at this instance. The next moment I feel his arms turning me around and pinning me to the wall. I am scared. He looks deep in my eyes. I feel choked.

"Give me a heir Khushi"

I could feel my heart thumping with fear and confusion. My knees go weak. My breathes colliding with his.. I am so tensed.. Its hard to break our eye lock because I am worried what will be his next moves if I look away from him. ? I am hell nervous. This is the first time he has ever demanded this from me. Heir?? A baby??? He wants a baby from me?? Here I am asking for a Divorce and he wants me to give him a child?? He is still looking intensely at me, I have no chance to move. Words are stuck in my throat. I can feel a drop of sweat rolling down my neck. He sees it and the next moment his finger lazily brushes over my neck and wipes that sweat bead off. I shiver at his sudden touch.

His phone rings in his Pant Pockets. Thats the only piece of cloth he is wearing right now. I feel little better thinking he would leave me at least to attend this call. But nothing so happens. He removes the phone and answers it without even checking whose call it is. His other hand has still pinned me to the wall not letting me go anywhere. Our eyes still looking at each other.

"Hello.. ( he pauses and stiffens realising its a call from his home but he doesnt let the other person talk).. I am little busy right now. Will call you morning. "

With that he disconnects the call and tries to pick me but I shove his arms off roughly.

"A Divorce !! (I repeat).. Thats all I can offer you."

I say that looking straight in his eyes and walk off that room. He doesnt follow me luckily.

********************

I spend some time in the garden outside. I am already swalloing my tears. To be honest I am little afraid of what happened just now. Arnav wants a baby from me? How can he expect that? Doesnt he know how worse our married life is? There is no scope for us to be together in future and he wants to add a child in it? Firstly why does he want a child? He doesnt like kids much, thats all I knows. Is his family pressurising him? Hope not. How can they hope we give them kids when they dont want to accept me in their house? This is all so confusing. I keep taking a slow walk in the garden, my eyes suddenly fall on Arnav who is now in his bedroom balcony, standing and watching me from there while drinking Wine. I turn my gaze away. I can still feel shivers running down my spine as I remember how close he was when he asked me for his baby. And he might have even made it happen hadnt I resisted and pushed him away.

I dont want him to keep admiring me from there. I get back inside and quickly run to my room locking it firmly so that he doesnt barge inside again.

*******************

It's my third day here in Arnavs farm house.
I am feeling locked up in a cage. I want to go out. I was not like this. My day in San Fransisco started with a long Jog in the Park. I miss that Starbucks coffee on my way to my Company, I miss Andy, my co-worker and ofcourse my Stupid Boss who knows nothing but to yell at his employees when they dont work as per his targets. I am not used to sit at home like this and do practically nothing. It's making me passive and dull. How will I ever get back to myself if I keep obeying the Raizada Rules laid on me here? If I have spine to ask for a Divorce, I have to gather courage to leave the premises whenever I want.

I brush, bath and get ready to go out and pamper myself with some basic stuff. I come out of my room. I see the MAster bedroom door open. That means he is in there. I keep walking, trying to pass from there without his knowledge. But the moment I try to elope, I hear his voice. He is talking to someone on Phone. I hear the name "Andy" and I freeze. Is he doing some nuisance in my Professional life? I want to confirm that right now. He could avoid me last night but not today. I barge in his room, without even knocking. He is speaking over the bluetooth, sipping his coffee. As I enter, he keeps the mug down but keeps talking.

"Get the details and fix a call today. I dont want to delay this Aman"

If he is talking to Aman Mathur, I am sure it has to be related to me. I fold my arms looking at him with irritation. He disconnects the call and places his hands in pockets.

"How many times should I tell you not to enter the room without knocking when I am inside?" he asks.
"I have seen you with lot less clothes than these", my reply startles him.
"Clothes on or off , I am never bothered. I dont like people interfering in my private talks."
"You were talking about Andy..  What was it?"

His phone buzzes again. He gestures me to stop talking and answers the call over his bluetooth again.

"Yes, I will be there in one hour", he replied over his bluetooth while buttoning his shirt. I know he is going out somewhere and looks like it is very important for him. He gives me a very acute look, showing extra attention to my lips, like always. I instantly look away to avoid his gaze.

"Stop curling your hair", I hear from him. I frown turning back and meeting his eyes.
"You need not bother about my hairdo", I instruct.

He doesnt directly reply to me but just points out to the bluetooth headset on his ears. He said that to someone else, not me. He ignores me thereafter and turns to pick his Suit. He was definately talking to a woman. He disconnects the call and then throws his bluetooth on the bed concentrating on me finally.

"I wont be coming back tonight. Eat well and .. "
"Dont bother .. I said that already", I Snap back at him.
"Lower your voice", he warns me with that scroching look in his eyes.  I am not afraid. I am just feeling pity for myself though for even not being able to ask where he would spend the night and with whom?

Our conversation remains incomplete as he storms out of the bedroom. I follow him. I want to know what he was doing at my back related to my work commitments. He sits for breakfast. Pancakes and some cereals, he starts the day with it after a Coffee of black coffee. I sit opposite to him. He has no eyes on me now. He is so much engrossed in eating.

"You still didnt tell me what you supposed to mean by Andy?"  I ask
"It's a name, I suppose. What else?"

He is ignoring my question which hints me directly to the conclusion.

"I am not going to end my Professional commitments" I talk clear and precise.
"You cant manage it from here" he argues
"I wont be here forever"
"Dont judge it all by yourself. I told you what I want already. We should work on that now" he clears his stand.

He is talking about the baby. I am not READY for it obviously.

"Producing babies needs Feelings first. I dont feel for you that way" I argue.
"Not my problem" he retaliates

He finishes his breakfast quick and gets up to leave. I am not happy leaving this conversation open ended. I get up too.

"I am meeting a Lawyer today"

I had to break this truth to him so that he realises how serious I am for the DIVORCE.

He flinches.. His body stiffens and his fingers fists involuntarily. He turns around to see me. He is not happy to hear that.

"No Lawyer can take any case against me Khushi. I have that power here. You better stop wasting your time and money and be productive. It's been two days you are here and we have had a lot of conversation about the "Not happening Divorce". But Not anymore. If you once again take that word from your mouth, you will have to witness an adverse effect on all the little liberties you have in this house."

His warnings have always scared the hell out of me. I still dont show it on my face though. He leaves the house and I sit on the chair again, thinking if I should meet the Lawyer or not.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 5

Though Arnav has left from this house few hours ago, I can still feel his presence surrounding me. As if he has an eye on whatever I do. He doesnt want me to meet any Lawyer. But that should not be his choice. Every citizen of this country has a right to consult a legal authority for his/her issues. I cant sit quiet obeying that man, fearing his next actions. I look at the clock. I have one hour for my appointment with Advocate Sheetal Raheja. I dress up and leave. No wonder at the door I am been stopped by his guards who tell me I am not supposed to leave the premises without Arnav Singh Raizada's permission. I disobey them.

"I am his wife... Not his caged bird"

They look at each other unable to take an action against me. But one of them is quite sharp. He tells the driver to drive me wherever required and get me home safely. This way though I am away from this house, I will still be under their supervision. I am not afraid to take his driver and Car. I get in and give the location details.

****************

I enter the cabin of Advocate Sheetal. She looks at me with a little surprise reading my name in her Appointment list and gets up from her chair.

Sheetal: Uhh..If I am correct, you are Mrs Khushi Singh Raizada??

I nod, I know how famous my husband is. And what hurts me the most here is that I am known by him, not because of my achievements in Career.

Khushi: Yes.
 Sheetal: Strange.. What are you doing here ?? ASR already has his own set of Lawyers to sort his matters.
 Khushi: It's not for him that I am here ..
 Sheetal nods again and asks me to sit. I dont know why but my hands are shivering . I cant believe I have made it till here. I am before an Advocate who can help me get away from Arnav Singh Raizada legally. Sheetal notices my discomfort and passes me a glass of water. I gulp it down my throat and then take a deep breathe keeping the glass back on table.

Khushi:  I need a Divorce from him..

That one statements makes Sheetal astonished. She looks blank at me for few seconds and then speaks.

Sheetal: You sure ??

I nod..

Khushi: Ofcourse.. I wont  have come all the way here if I wasnt sure.
 Sheetal: Hmm... And .. I suppose this is not a mutual decision which is why you dont have his Attorney to support this matter and take it forward.
 Khushi: Right.. He doesnt want to leave me..
 Sheetal: Alright.. Uhhh... To begin with.. I have to know on what grounds you are asking for a Divorce? I mean .. does he hurt you physically?? Any mental torture? Or did he abuse you??

I dont know what to reply.. Thats because I am scared  may be..

Sheetal: Khushi.. There is nothing to be scared of. THis is a regular procedure. I need to know what grounds we will be filing a Divorce against him.

Khushi: He .. and I were never meant to be together.. We.. dont have any compatibility.. We dont match ...

Sheetal looks confusing at me..

Sheetal: These reasons arent enough for Divorce.. Anyone else who hears it would only advise you to go and speak to a Marriage Counselor.. I suppose it was an arranged marriage??

Khushi: I ...First tell me you will help me out in this.. Dont worry about the fees, I will manage.. I just need to be sure the person I am speaking to is going to take my words seriously and put them to action..

I want an assurance from Sheetal Raheja that she will help me out otherwise there is no point in describing my Past life to her.

Sheetal places her palm on my fist warmly..

Sheetal: I fight for the injustice Khushi and if you too have faced it, then I am here to help you.

I feel great.. As if I have got some saviour for me who I can trust upon..

Khushi: Thanks.
 Sheetal: Now tell me how did this begin?? I mean why you got married to him in the first place when you knew what kind of personality he is?

I am driven to my past by that question.. Things were already complicated those days and even though I always wanted to keep it in my heart, today I will finally get them out in public only to safeguard me from his clutches...

Khushi: I was almost 23 by then. My Nani was the only one I had. We stayed happily here in Delhi at our ancestral property. My education was completed by the little savings which my father had managed to do when he was alive. Even Nani worked when I was young. It was always hard to manage a household expenses when you have no one to earn full time. Nani was good at embroidering. She did that and was very famous in the entire colony. So basically I was very much cultured girl who knew what value money has in my life. Nani had only one good friend.. Subhadra Raizada.. A rich lady of her age whom I started calling Daadi. Subhadra Raizada and Nani became friends by visiting the same temple every day.. They started sharing their experiences with each other. Even after being so rich, Subhadra Raizada had no ego. She was so down to earth. She started coming to meet Nani at home and at those times she met me too. She was getting fond of me and my mannerisms. She never talked about her family to us except her love for her grandson Arnav Singh Raizada.. I had heard this name very much those times.. In magazines, in newspapers and even sometimes on Television. Like any normal girl who has high expectations from her would be husband, I too had a few from the man I would marry and he was totally opposite to it. But then one fine day Subhadra Raizada proposed me for her Grandson and my Nani was more than excited to know. I didnt give much response but then suddenly Nani became ill. She had to be hospitalised. I was scared.. I know her age was speeding and somehow I was been given negative feedbacks too by the Doctor who told me she doesnt have much time. That day in the hospital, when Nani was speaking to me about her last wish, to see me married, HE came there..

Sheetal saw tears in Khushi's eyes...

Sheetal: HE??
 Khushi: Arnav.. ( I softly replied )

FLASHBACK STARTS

Hospital - Almost a Year ago

I was already very upset of Nani's weak condition and she was adding more to my despair by talking about my decision for marrying Arnav Singh Raizada. How am I suppose to tell her he is not the one whom I can adore as my husband. Thats when the door of the Private room knocked and I hear Subhadra Raizada's voice from behind. I turn around.. She is standing there with her Grandson Arnav which was totally unexpected by me.. He looked busy in speaking to someone over bluetooth. Our eyes still met and even though I took off my eyes from him, he was still admiring me,  I could say that. I hug Daadi immediately and then she goes to Nani and asks her about her health. I dont know what to do. Though I am standing with Nani and Daadi, I feel his intense looks on me. He must have mocking at my clothing and attire in my mind as he was always surrounded by more beautiful and good dressed women. I looked more like a clown at the present. But not that I was careless about this. How can anyone expect me to well dress when my Nani is hospitalised. ?

Daadi introduces Arnav to my Nani. He doesnt even say a Namaste to her forget touching her feet for taking the blessings. Suddenly another man comes in the room. He is holding a bouquet of flowers and some fruit basket . Arnav then gestures him to pass it to Nani. How rude?? Couldnt he give it to Nani?? Daadi then introduces the other man as Aman Mathur, Arnav's secretary.

Nani looks quite impressed by Arnav ignoring the attitude that he was flaunting here .

Nani: So nice of you bitwa that you removed so much of time for coming here.  I was just speaking to Khushi about the marriage proposal only.

Nani is making me embarrassed by stating that before him. I avoid seeing him.

Nani: Now that we all four are here, It would have been good if you also state your opinion on this matter.
 Arnav: I am ready .

His instant response makes me go weak on my knees. I didnt know what to do. .He agreed for the marriage?? So easily ?? Nani is very happy. She calls me to her ..

Nani: Khushi.. You heard that??He is ready.. What.. ( she breathes heavily taking stress. It makes me more worried for her health).. What is your reply??
 Khushi: Nani we can talk later.. You rest..

Nani is in no mood to let it go. She just wants to know my reply and I say what she wants to  hear..

Khushi: I .. I am ready too..

She hugs me happily and thats when my eyes meet Arnav's again. He looks surprised.. I felt as if he hadnt expected that from me so easily. He is being congratulated by Aman but his eyes are only fixed on me.. That same moment I get all the negative  vibes about this marriage but I dont respond to them..I know what I am doing. This is for Nani.. Thats the least I can do for her..

FLASHBACK ENDS

Sheetal: hmm.. so thats how you agreed? I can understand the bonding between you and her. But then.. what was next ??
 Khushi: Our wedding was fixed but Subhadra Raizada had to urgently leave for Mathura for some reason . She blessed me before leaving giving her apology for not being able to attend the wedding. It was a very simple event organised in a Temple with only relatives from my side.. He denied inviting anyone.
 Sheetal: Yea.. I know that.. Had read in the papers the next day of your wedding that none of the Celebrities or close ones of the Raizada family were invited. But why??
 Khushi: I never asked him.
 Sheetal: You guys didnt meet after that hospital incident??
 Khushi: No.. I tried to  talk to him but he was always busy. He didnt even share his personal number with me. He asked me to contact Aman for any simplest thing required..


Sheetal got infuriated.

Khushi: I could sense his ignorance in this marriage right from the day it was fixed but never could stop it. ( I take a deep sigh ) ..And then we got married. It was so strange to know that your husband worked even on the day of his marriage? He was late in the mandap. The Mahurat was already passed and the people were kept waiting for him. After frequent calls and reminders he came and sat next to me. Even  for one little second when we had to hold hands in the ritual, I didnt feel his involvement in this relationship. It was like I was marrying some lifeless soul who could only be seen but not felt emotionally. You know Sheetal, after the rituals happened , he left the place hurriedly. It was Aman who kept the guests entertained after this. It was so embarrassing for me. Nani was somewhere realising that ignorance from him but she thought it was too early to judge him.. But for me IT WAS ALREADY LATE..

Aman told me that Arnav had appointed a Nurse to look after my Nani after I am gone to stay with him. It was something which I liked to know. My Bidaai was done and the Driver took me to the Farm house. I knew this is not the actual mansion of the Raizada's. They stayed in the heart of Delhi not in outskirts. When asked Aman about it, he said Arnav doesnt want me to step in there. He himself does not stay permanently with that family. I had so many questions to ask Arnav related to his family but he wasnt yet present in the house. I almost was awake in his Master bedroom till 02:00 am midnight , waiting for him to come .. That wait didnt get over soon and  I dozed off.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 6

Sheetal: You dozed off on your marriage night before he came? Hmm..

I can understand Sheetal is trying to paraphrase my words to make me feel comfortable for explaining what happened after that. I dont have to actually recollect the happenings of that night. Everything is still right before my eyes. As if I am watching a bad dream with open eyes.

FLASHBACK STARTS

MArriage Night

I was so fast asleep being tired of the hectic rituals that I didnt realise when he came in the room until I could hear a loud noise of something falling down. I open my eyes wide and sit on the bed scanning quickly where the noise came from. The table lamp is still burning and its light is enough for me to notice my newly wed husband has finally returned but .. HE IS OVERDRUNK.. !!I I obviously know he drinks but he will not have any control over it even on our marriage night makes me worry why? He sees me from far.. The small Flower vase at the corner of the room had broken into pieces. He might have kicked it unknowingly on his way in. I try to get up from the bed but he gestures with his arm "Stay where you are"...!!

His tone makes me feel like I am locked in the room with some stranger. He takes slow steps towards me which frightens me all the more. I clutch the sides of my Lehnga. I can see rage in his eyes . I can feel he is unhappy with our present situation. I feel .. wrong. .. I try not to show my nervousness to him but it's not that easy to hide it. He reaches me and in no time he is all leaning on me. I feel scared. That anger on his face turns to a wide Smirk as he extends his arm to shut off the table lamp. The moment the room gets dark, I push him away. I cant take this anymore. He is not in his senses. He is thrown on the bed and though he wants to retaliate for what I did, he doesnt have that energy any longer. His eyes shuts down slowly as he sees me getting off the bed in horror.

It's a worst experience. Is this appropriate for any husband to show this kind of attitude on his marriage night? No.. I take the Pillow and sleep on the Recliner that night. Tears flow down my cheeks and I dont even have that much energy to wipe them off, I am so tired and scared..

I dont even realise again when its morning already until I feel almost a tumbler full of water being splashed on my face . I am unable to breathe for few seconds after I wake up suddenly and try to analyse where I was.. Its HIM.. My husband is standing with the empty mug which he throws away now seeing me wide awake..

Khushi ( wiping off the water from my face): What is wrong with you ?Is this a way to wake your wife ?

My anger is reflected to him in my tone. I am still on the Recliner where he leans over me again. I feel like a Cat who is being cornered from all sides only because she stole some milk. He is just few inches away from my face.

"And pushing me last night wasnt Wrong?", he asks with equal frustration in his tone as mine.. I understand what he is reminding me about.

"You were overdrunk"
"So?"
"We didnt even talk a word until last night"
"So?"
"So.. .how.. how can you .. just .. get.. close .. to me?"

He punches his fist at the side of my head on the Recliner..

"Because you are my damn wife since yesterday. What other reason you want for that?"
"This excuse is silly", I defend.
"It's enough for me to show my right on you", he doesnt seem to understand me.

I have no energy to argue. I sneeze.. I often get cold if I dont wipe my head fast after bath. And this man he threw water on me and didnt even allow me to wipe it off. The moment I sneeze, he backs off. I sneeze again. And again.. and again..

"DAMMIT!!" he roars aloud and leaves the room without any further conversation.

FLASHBACK ENDS

I find Sheetal very surprised to know what really happened that night and the morning after. She takes a second to realise its not a fiction but something that really happened with me and then the very next question she asks me, freezes me.

Sheetal: You guys consummated your marriage ever?

No one ever had asked me that. I dont take much time to respond though my palms are cold now..

Khushi: Never!!

She sighs and then leans back closing her eyes. I dont know what exactly she is thinking right now. After few minutes she asks me to continue.

Khushi: It took me few more days to realise I cant stay with him. He is horrible. He doesnt need a wife. He just wanted a Slave. Someone who can sit when he asks to sit, eat when he wants her to eat and never ask him any questions pertaining to anything. It's not that I didnt try to understand his background. I asked him about his family and he had only one answer.

FLASHBACK STARTS

"You dont need to know about my family"
"Why? They are my family too. I want to see them, meet them. Why didnt they attend our wedding? Where is Daadi? Why isnt she coming to meet me?", I raise all my concerns.

He slams the closet door without much effort and pins me to it.

"I SAID.. YOU DONT NEED TO KNOW THEM!!", his voice aches my heart this time. A lone drop of tear escapes from the corner of my eyes. He notices that and lets me go. He is in a hurry to leave. I dont even know where? It's definately not office because its Sunday.

"I want to see Nani", I command.
"Come back before night", he replies and goes off the room.

He had always been cold to me after our marriage night. I wonder if this is what he planned to behave with me everytime then why did he marry? Or was it that even he had a compulsion to marry me when he never wanted to?

FLASHBACK ENDS

My eyes turns moist. Sheetal notices that and hands me a tissue paper. I wipe my eyes, murmuring a soft "Thank You" to her.

Sheetal: Horrible. No one should face a situation like that Khushi. I feel pity for you. And now I understand why you are behind a Divorce. But tell me one thing, where were you all these months? I had heard it long ago that you are abroad but he never disclosed where and why to the media.
Khushi: Just 10 days had passed and my Nani expired.. ( tears fill my eyes again missing Nani).. She had a major heart attack and couldnt sustain it.
Sheetal: Oohh I am sorry.. What was Arnav's reaction to your loss?
Khushi: He wasnt even there to comfort me. He had been for some Business work abroad. Aman, his manager informed him but he didnt come back. He gave prority to his work than my loss.
Sheetal: So devilish of him to do so.

Khushi: I couldnt stay in that house after Nani's demise, neither I wanted to live a Slavery life with Arnav. So after finishing the 12 days ritual after Nani's death,  I decided to fly to California. I already had a Visa stamped. After my education, I was recruited by a Foreign company seeing my performance. I had done special course on Event Management and hence I had a chance to join that Company if I wanted to.
Sheetal: And you took his absence in India as an opportunity to get away?

I nod in agreement..

Khushi: Thats all. I started working in california. For some months I didnt even email him or told him my whereabouts. But one day suddenly I got his email with my detailed Address where I stayed. I was afraid he would come here and take me back but he mentioned it very clearly in that email that his Ego is too high for that. He told me I will be compelled to get back to him someday and he will wait for it to come. I ignored his threat.. Even after getting so much success in my professional life, I was still feeling lonely. I wanted to be happy but the chains of my marriage with him never allowed me to even smile. So I decided to Divorce him. I made the papers ready , sent him but in return he sent me the Flight ticket and a clear cut note that he would ammend our marriage terms but wont Divorce me.. Thus I had to come back here for fighting against him legally. I dont have much time Sheetal. I have to return back to California in a month and resume my work there.

Sheetal: Courts here arent that fast Khushi. And precisely you and Arnav havnt stayed together even for 6 months , the court might give you a chance to stay together for sometime and then come back if you still dont wish to continue the marriage..
Khushi: I cant stay with him.. Thats final. Last night he asked a "HEIR" from me Sheetal. I am afraid.. I try to be strong but I dont know when he would overpower me.. I dont feel safe.. Please do something..

Sheetal was so much touched to know my story..

Sheetal: HEIR? He wants a baby from you ?Why?
Khushi: I dont know.. I didnt ask..
Sheetal: Then ask him Khushi.. It wont work if you always be Quiet.. And regarding the 6 months stay together, we can decline it in our first proceeding only but for that we need proofs..
Khushi: Proofs ? What Proofs ?
Sheetal: Something like.. he is ditching you .. He has an affair .. I cant be sure if he really has one or not. But we need to prove the negligance from his end in this marriage and only then we can get the Divorce approved sooner. It would have been a different case if he too wanted the same from you. As he is unwilling for seperation , we will have to work hard to show how wrong he is treating you. Got that?

I am understanding what Sheetal is trying to implicate here .I look at my watch and see its already late evening.. I was her last appointment of the day luckily so no one was waiting for her. Sheetal keeps her palm over my hands.

Sheetal: Dont worry. We will win through this. I will make the papers ready, you just try collecting proofs.. Okay?

I dont know how I will do this, But I agree. At least we have started somewhere.. !! I bid her bye and then get back in the car which was waiting for me since long. The Driver drives me back to the Farm house and all this while I am just thinking What proofs I can get against him?

*********************

Night

I am in my Guest room, sitting in dark and thinking hard about the Proofs. I know he is not coming home tonight. Where can he go? Also, he was speaking to someone on call about the hairdo.. It was definately a Woman.. Can she be his girlfriend? Does he even have one? May be .. Because I remember the Low neck dress I found here in the closet.. It should belong to some one. Who is she? I scratch my head thinking about it. I have to act fast. I should call at his office to see where he is now. I cant take the risk of calling Aman. He will never support me against Arnav. I dial his office number and from there I come to know he is in some party. Whose party? I tell the Receptionist I am his wife and I need to get to my husband as soon as possible. She gives me the Venue details and I write it down on a paper. I will have to go here and see what my husband was doing at my back. Why did he say he is not coming home tonight? I am sure I will get some Proofs that I desperately want at this stage to end this marriage.. I get up to dress and leave.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 7

I reach the venue where my husband is supposed to be present. I literally am surprised to see how lavishly he spends on such parties. He has a lot of money but all this money and power could not buy him some decency in relationships. If he really has another woman, it will be a shame, not just to me but also the so called marriage we are bonded into.

I manage to avoid facing the media directly and get down from car. Not to mention, I have come here by Private Cab. I took the ride from Arnav's car till a Shopping mall. And then from there I got into this Private Cab so that the Driver doesn't tell my husband I am going to be a part of his party. The guards secure my entry, they are still unaware I am his wife. They are treating me just like another VIP guest. I am asked for the Invitation card at the entrance of the venue. Without that I wont be let in.

Khushi: Who is the host of this party?? ( I ask in a strong tone)
 Guard: Maam.. Please show the Card, we are not allowed to send in any uninvited guests. 
 Khushi: I asked who is the Host of this party ?? ( i repeat)

The Guard gives up arguing with me and replies back.

Guard: Mr Arnav Singh Raizada.
 Khushi: I am his wife.

I never intended to use this identity of mine so easily, but tonight I have to get some insight on what my husband is really doing, away from me. The Guard looks at me with a surprise and then laughs hard.

Guard: I am Tom Cruise then..

I am frustrated seeing him laughing on me.

Guard: Please step aside Maam.. You are not allowed inside.

He tried to push me away when suddenly Arnav's Secretary who had given me this Venue details comes there and yells at him.

Secretary: What are you doing Rajesh? She is Boss's Wife. Do you want to lose your job??

The guard was shocked as he got the confirmation.

Guard: Sorry .. I am sorry Maam.. Please come..

He moved aside to  allow me In. The secretary lead me to the actual venue. She was trying to convince me not to let Arnav know what happened just now. He might even fire her from Job which she cannot afford to happen. I dont speak a word. I am already nervous here seeing unknown faces surrounding me.

Khushi: Where is Arnav??
 Secretary: He is at that corner addressing the media.

She points out to the direction where Arnav is. He is wearing the Black Tuxedo, holding a drink in his hand while the other in his pant pocket as he gives a little insight about his company's new plans. I have arrived till here but what after this ? Should I make him know I am here? Will he like it ?What if he gets mad at me? How will I find proofs for the Divorce if he knows I am here? I will have to hide my presence. I take a step back and mix up in the crowd. The secretary follows me.

Secretary: Maam.. Would you like some drink until Boss finishes his talk with the media??
 Khushi: Dont let him know I am here.

Secretary gets panicked.

Secretary: But Maam .. I cant..
 Khushi: Do as I say ( I reply with some anger in my tone )

I am not that rude. But whenever the matter is related to him, I cannot control my anger too. The secretary unwillingly nods and leaves me alone. So now.. I am all set to capture each of his actions. I am constantly keeping an eye on him, whom he meets, his gestures, his expressions when he meets other women around and so on. I didnt get anything what I really expected as a proof. He was normal to other women. One thing I noticed was that he was quite uncomfortable around one man who was probably some 50 year old. By the looks of this man, I can sense he must be from Arnav's family. They both had some resemblance. Who was he ? Arnav's father?? Yea I know his father is alive, and his mother had passed away when Arnav was quite small. What about Daadi?? Was she here too ? My eyes scroll everywhere to see if I can find some known face. That's when I unknowingly stumble with another man who is over drunk. I apologise to him as the fault is mine. He gives me a very notorious look from top to bottom. I am wearing a decent dress but seeing the way this man is staring at me I feel disgusted.

Man: Beautiful... Never seen you before..

I gulp. Not that I haven't met such bad people before. I know to tackle them. I try to walk away but he blocks my way.

Man: Are you alone?
 Khushi: Mind your business Mr..
 Man: How cute.. ( he responds and tries to corner me )

I am totally surprised at his actions. I push him away and try to run but he holds my arm. There is hardly anyone here to see this happening. All of a sudden, my struggle stops as I see this man being pulled back from his collar and punched hard on face. I shiver witnessing the intensity of that Punch which came out from none other than my husband Arnav Singh Raizada. The man falls on the ground almost unconscious but seems like Arnav is not satisfied with that one punch. He again leans down and holding the collar he pulls the man again to stand on feet.

Arnav: How dare you you touch her?

I havnt seen this level of anger from Arnav anytime unlike today. I am little afraid of even stopping him from hurting that man.

"Arnav... ", the same 50 year old man whom Arnav was earlier with, came there and held Arnav's arms. " leave him", he warned Arnav who was totally out of control at the moment.

Arnav: He touched my wife.. I wont spare this man.. ( he replied clenching his jaw while his hands still holding the neck of that drunkard who was losing his consciousness feeling choked. )

The 50 year old man looked at me once and then Aman came there to assist him.

Aman: ASR.. Enough.. The media is around.. Leave him..

Aman and the 50 year old man both managed to get that drunk  man away from Arnav's clutches. The guards came there and caught hold of him.

Arnav: Throw him out of here.

Saying that, Arnav once again kicked the man whose face was already bleeding. I stood there shivering seeing my raged husband who had no control over his actions tonight. The moment the guards took that man, Arnav shrugged Aman and the 50 year old man's arms from his shoulders and strode to me. I was so cold and blank. He clutched my arm and dragged me out of the Venue. I felt immense pain in my arm and hence I yanked his hand away once we were out of there.

Arnav: What the hell are you doing here?? ( he blurted angrily). I am here on a business meet dammit. Are you spying on me Khushi?? Say something .. I am talking to you ( his tone roughened and his pitch was loud )
 Khushi: You almost choked that man .. .( That scene was still revolving before my eyes). .He would have died.. ( I replied aloud)
 Arnav ( holding my arms and pulling me to him): He touched you.. ( his teeth gritted)
 Khushi : I can handle such men..
 Arnav: I didnt see any signs of you handling him by the way.. He called you "cute".. "beautiful".. You should have slapped him the very first time he touched your hand.. Is that what you call handling ??

I became quiet.. He was observing me all this time??

Khushi: (shrugging his arms off): You knew I was here??

He became silent. He met my eyes though and I could read his unsaid reply.

Khushi: I am a fool. I thought I can spy on you.. I forgot you are very powerful. Your people's eyes will always be on me to keep you updated on every little movement of mine.
 Arnav: Thats not the point. I gave you the permission to move out of that house if required.. Not to interfere in my business meets and parties. Not until I want you to be anywhere around me. Next time, you better control your feet from walking my path.. Got it??

He turns around and waves his arm . A car immediately comes and stops by our feet. He opens the door for me and pulls me to get seated inside. I am forced to get in and he shuts the door standing out.

Arnav: Get back home. I will see you in the morning.

He moves back and the driver drives the car. I am so much pissed off.  My mission was failed. But I am not going to grieve over this. I will find some other way to get what I want from him.

*****************

The Whole night I kept tossing on bed with depression. Arnav's violent reactions to that man in the party kept confusing me all the more. What should I name his behaviour? His actions were totally opposite to how he treats me. Was it just a husband's insecurity that made him hit that man for teasing his wife? Or was it because his ego was hurt when some other man praised his wife which he always failed to comprehend? Or was he just being a gentleman protecting a woman's dignity? No, the last option should not be considered as he himself never showed respect to me and my emotions, so he will not show it off publicly either. So what was it? These questions kept haunting my mind until I finally get some sleep.

The next morning when I wake up, I find Advocate Sheetal's message on my mobile. She wants to meet me in her office. I am very curious to know what she got for me? Has she found a better way out of this marriage? I should not delay in meeting her again. And for that I will have to leave the house before Arnav comes back. I get my shower and disperse. I dont mind using the car specially allocated to my service. The Driver knows where I have to go. I am sure he must have already informed Arnav I have been meeting this Advocate. It's just that Arnav hasnt confronted me yet and even if he does, I will not be afraid to accept it.

I reach Sheetal's office and she is waiting for me in her cabin. I wish her a Good Morning and then stand at her desk.

Khushi: What's so important that you called me at this hour?

She gets up and reaches me.

Sheetal: After you left yesterday, I did my homework. In this profession, we do have some sources who gets us insights on our Clients or opponents lives. So I asked them to dug some details about Arnav Singh Raizada and his family too.

Whatever she said starts worrying me. Was it bad??

Sheetal: I have got to know from my sources Khushi and I believe their information.
 Khushi: What information??

Sheetal nervously touched Khushi's shoulder. She knew this news will be difficult for any woman to digest.

Sheetal: He has a girlfriend and he has kept her in his house, with his family.

I step back in surprise  hitting my back on the table behind and then hold the edge of the table to keep balance. So this is why he has been spending so much time in his other house? This is why he never introduced me to his family? This is why he never took me to his real home? My eyes became moist and within seconds tears rolled down my cheeks. I felt disgusted for being his wife.

Khushi: No.. ( I murmur).. He cant be so evil. Girl friend in his house?? Between his family? It's not possible. You might have got some wrong information Sheetal.
 Sheetal: Khushi control yourself. Look this is just an information, which only Arnav or his family will be able to substantiate. I dont know what that other girl is doing in his house. But I am sure she is the reason why he spends most of his time at his real home than the farm house where he has kept you.

My tears dry. I am not sure if this is any kind of positive sign for me to get separated from him but being his wife, I am not able to digest the fact that my husband can stoop so low. There are sweat beads formed on my forehead. I am very nervous. I want immediate answers to my questions otherwise I might become more stressed. Every action from his end has lead me in trouble. Now only God knows what pain this one truth will give me in the coming future. I leave back home from Sheetal's office unable to continue the discussion further. She will understand my state of mind, I know.

******************

When I reach home, balancing my weak steps, I find him sitting on the Couch, sipping his coffee while reading the newspaper. My jaw tightens. I feel like smacking his face for what he is doing with me. He sees me once from top to bottom and then back in my eyes.

Arnav: Where had you been??

I am frustrated at that question. How can he expect me to be loyal to him when he himself is ditching me? I walk angrily past him to the Guest room where I have been staying from past few days. He follows me. When we reach the room, he holds my wrist and turns me around .

Arnav: Dont walk away when I am talking to you Khushi.

I start hitting my fist and palm on his chest angrily with speed, not giving him a single chance to escape. He bears the hurtful punches from me for some time and then holding my wrist, he pins me to the wall behind looking ragingly in my eyes.

Arnav: Are you mad??
 Khushi: Yes I am mad..  At you.. For hurting me .. For disrespecting me.. For stabbing at my back by having an extra marital affair Mr Arnav Singh Raizada ( my voice is loud )

His hold is still tightened on my wrists but there is a pin drop silence for a few seconds.. He keeps looking in my eyes.

Khushi: What happened? You thought I will never come to know about it?? How could you hide that woman in your house with your family? How sick of you Arnav? Being your wife, I was never given a place there and how easily you entitled her position in your house without even bothering what will I go through when I come to know of it?? How disgusting of you.. ( I blurted out all of this in one breathe. ).. So since when is this alleged affair going on?? Months?? Years?? Why didnt you marry her than me?? Why not Divorce me and get tied to her if she is that close to you and your family? Why not expect a Heir from her than begging from me whom you have just treated  like a door mat??

Arnav: ENOUGH!!!! ( he roared in anger).

Khushi: Exactly.. Its enough for me too. I am no longer going to take this mess. In a day or two your attorney will be receiving my Divorce application filed. Get prepared for that.

My warning makes him more hyper but I dont give a damn to it anymore. I push him away and walk out of the room to get some fresh air. I have done the right thing and I will ensure he gives me my freedom back. I have no other expectation from him. But before all this ends, I still want to know where is Daadi and why isnt she contacting me? Did she also knew about Arnav's affair ?

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 8

Khushi's voice echoed in his ears and kept disturbing him for long. How did she know about who stayed in Shantivan? It just took him two more minutes to realise who might have given this information to her. The very next moment he picked the phone from the bed and dialed Aman.

Arnav connected the Bluetooth headset on his ear and walked to the poolside where an exclusive bar counter was mounted for his unsatisfied thirst. He opened the drink bottle and gulped the liquid without even mixing it up with water.

 Aman: Helllloooo?? What's that sound?? Are you drinking??
 Arnav placed the half empty bottle back on the counter.

 Arnav: Khushi got to know about Tanvi. ( the moment he replied, he threw the half empty bottle on the floor breaking it)
 Aman: Who told her that??
Arnav: (Angrily): Find that out Aman. Since the time Khushi has come back from California, all she knows is to piss my mind. If this continues, I dont think I will keep my calm anymore.

Aman: When have you? ( he teasingly asked )
Arnav: Shut up.
Aman could feel Arnav turning hyper on the other side.
Aman: Okay.. You relax. Your Blood pressure shouldn't shoot up. I will check who can give her the insights of your family. And by the way I have sent a Car at the Railway Station. Apart from that do you want me to talk to Khushi Bhabhi separately on this matter?

Arnav shut his eyes tight trying to supress his anger and then responded.

 Arnav: I can handle her.
 Aman( chuckled): You should. But Biwi hai woh tumhari. So just one request. Handle her with care.. Try with Belgian chocolates. She loves them.
 Arnav: Dont teach me!! ( he warned )
 Aman: Alright. I will see you in the evening then if by any chance you coming to office today.
 Arnav: I am not coming there today. Handle everything.

Aman had no surprise hearing that. He knew Arnav Singh Raizada never needed excuses to take a break from his Official schedule. He disconnected the call and got back to work whereas Arnav opened another bottle to quench his thirst.

*****************

My head aches strongly as I get up from the bed after a long sleep. I didnt know when I slept this morning after that heated conversation with Arnav. I remembered I was crying for being stuck in this unwanted relationship where my husband is already enjoying his extra marital affair. This was just enough now. I so openly told him I knew about his girlfriend but he didnt respond anything to defend himself. He was unknowingly proving my blames true. I get down the bed and come outside the room to fetch some food. I am hungry. There are some maids cleaning the house as a part of their daily duties but I dont care to ask them to prepare a meal for me. I dont trust anyone here. I enter the Kitchen and open the refrigerator. There are some fruits and milk. I take them out and decide to make some custard. I turn around to pour the milk in a bowl which takes almost few minutes for me to accomplish this. When I look back again to get the fruits chopped, I find someone already doing that for me. My husband is here, cutting kiwi's and Strawberry's for the Custard. Doesnt he have a bit of shame to face me again? He cuts the Kiwi in three pieces and meeting my eyes he pops one in his mouth.

"What?? I am hungry too. Hope that custard you planning to make will be sufficient for both of us"

He smirks and I feel more disgusted that he has no bit of remorse how he is treating me.

"Why dont you ask your Girl Friend to come and make this for you?", I ask in a frustrated tone.

He keeps the knife back and holding my hand he pins me to the Kitchen slab behind. I have no energy to push him away and mind my business. THis man has always been capable enough to drive my energy low only by his arguements.

"She is not my Girlfriend", he plainly answers.
"You think I will take that as a Truth?"

He presses on me more firmly leaving me no room to escape.

"Dont you understand when I say SHe is not my girlfriend dammit. Arnav Singh Raizada doesnt meddle with others atleast when he is committed to a DEAL!!"
"What DEAL", I snap back.

 I catch him by that one word "DEAL". His expressions start changing as if he had landed himself into some trouble.

"Everything has always been a DEAL to me. Even this marriage", this is what he responds and clears my confusion. To add to it his eyes wander on my lips for few seconds, taking his own time to read them, study them by his gaze. I feel an unusual shiver. This man here had never been so free to even notice me earlier. Why now? The closeness between us has raised enough heat within me and I realise it when a sweat bead rolls down my neck tickling my skin. He notices the sweat bead now and his thumb automatically covers it on my neck as he starts wiping it off, gazing passionately in my eyes. I feel a shiver in my spine. Every woman wants this attention from her man, every wife dotes for such intense eye locks from her husband but I am still unsure if he really is MY MAN or has he given that right to someone else ?

The sweat bead was wiped off many seconds back but his thumb still created ripples on my neck. I shrug his finger off, breaking our eye lock. I hear him exhale heavily.

"Its high time Khushi you stop running away from me" he commanded.
"You free me from this house arrest first. I am not your asset that you need guards to protect", I retort.

He takes some seconds to decide and then inhales deep.

"Alright. But you will not invade in my professional matters."
"Neither should you. Whatever you planned to do with my career in San Francisco, just abort it."

He fists his fingers looking intensely in my eyes.

"You aren't going back there...( I am about to retaliate but he places a finger on my lips shuting me up).. I can get you run that work from India.
Is he doing this favour on me or keeping me again in his vicinity to spy?
"I have scope there. Not here", I defend
"Either accept my choice or forget it forever"
I have no idea why are we even discussing this?
"You won't be taking decisions for me as we are Divorcing", I remind him again.

This time he punches his fist on the marble slab where I am pinned by him, hurting hjs own fingers.
"No Divorce is happening. Leave that thought. I am doing my best possible to make things comfortable for you in this house and in your life, dont make me go back in the previous mode or else you will lose even the remaining few liberties you are getting in this place. ( I am again going to give my response  on his thoughts but this time he uses his entire palm to shut my mouth).. Its final. You get that??"

I blink my eyes holding his wrists struggling to get free. He moves his palm away from my mouth.

"Stop bullying me or else.."
Our conversation is disturbed by a maid who informs him Daadi has arrived. I am surprised but looks like he knew she was coming. The maid leaves and he turns to me again.

Arnav: Lets be a good couple before her. Wash your sleepy face and come out.
He leaves the kitchen whereas I keep standing there in disbelief. Daadi is here ? Finally I will be able to join the bits and pieces of my marriage and frame an exact picture why this man even married me if this is how he wished to treat me?

After washing my face, I come out in the Living room where Daadi is standing and talking to Arnav. The moment I see her, my body doesnt control any longer from reaching her and giving her a tight hug. SHe embraces me with equal love. I feel my strength regaining but the tears in my eyes are unstoppable. She caresses me and then pulls me back from the hug and wipes my eyes.

Khushi: Where had you been Daadi? I..
Daadi: (interrupted): Where had you been Khushi? You eloped ? I never thought you will ever take this step and that too without even discussing once with me?
Khushi: I was suffocating..

Daadi looks angrily to Arnav who doesnt really care.

Daadi: What have you done to her?
Arnav: I didnt touch her, if thats what you think is the reason she ran away Daadi. You asked me a hell lot of doubts about why Khushi left me and this house. Now she is back. Just sit with her and ask yourself. I am in the Drawing room doing my work. Excuse me!!

He goes leaving me and Daadi alone. Once again he has shown his disinterest in our talks which are actually so much important at the moment but I am now used to it. I take Daadi in the guest room, she sees my clothes and stuff settled down there.

Daadi: You dont stay even in one room?
Khushi: It was my choice.

She seems to be worried for us and hence doesnt wait long enough to question me what exactly was happening me and Arnav. I dont wait either. I start telling her how I was been caged down here, how he ignored letting me meet his family from Day 1, how he treated me on our wedding night, how he keeps man handling me if I dont obey his words, how he uses hurtful words to keep me controlled, how he ignores me taking along in the public, how he wants me to act like his slave, how he shows his possessivness suddenly when I intrude his party, how he warns me to stick to this marriage forever and lastly how I am desperate to get Divorced.

Daadi is so much tensed to know the A to Z of our relationship. She starts crying and I dont like it.

Daadi: It's all my fault. I binded you both together.. WHat will I reply to your Nani when I meet her in heaven? I spoiled your life Khushi. I thought this marriage will end my Grandson's lonliness. I thought he will learn the values of being good to people by staying with a woman like you. Look what I have done? Neither he is happy, nor you.

She joins her palms and begs pardon from me.

Daadi: Forgive me for this injustice Khushi. I.. I never wanted to ruin your lives. .I hold her palms and stop her from asking my forgiveness. My eyes are welled up seeing Daadi so emotional.

Khushi: Daadi.. It's not your fault. Such things happen in life.. No one forced me for this marriage, definately not you. I took this decision on my own for Nani. But even she left me. Now all I have is you.. Dont break me down by asking forgiveness .. Please..

Daadi calmed down and wiped her tears.

Daadi: You will leave my Grandson? ( she had so much pain while asking this )

I didnt had any reply.

Daadi: Cant you give him one more chance Khushi? I will stay with you and help you if thats what you want. But please dont leave my Grandson. He is bad.. But he can be changed to good. I beg you, please dont seperate from him. You are my only hope.. PLease..

I had thought Daadi's comeback will help me getting out of this marriage but it doesnt look so. SHe is making me emotionally weak by hoping that I will stay back as Arnav's wife giving him one more chance. Is that possible? Can I give this man one chance? Not until I have one question answered.

Khushi: He has a girlfriend in SHantivan?
Daadi is speechless but she responds back and I can say she is not lying to save her Grandson's marriage.

Daadi: You mean Tanvi? No.. No khushi.. Tanvi wanted to marry him but she is not his Girl friend. Yes she stays in Shantivan because she is my Daughter in law's Brother's daughter. She has no family here in Delhi which is why she is at our home. Arnav doesnt like her. Trust me!!


These words soothe my pain somehow and I am realising how Sheetal might have confused herself. Arnav did tell me the same thing in the Kitchen some time back that she wasnt his Girl friend. But I chose not to believe him then. Sometimes you have the truth right in front and you still ignore it, thats exactly what happened with me.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 9

Even though I am relaxed that Arnav has no girl friend, I am still very eager to know more about his family. But even before that I have some serious questions for Daadi.

Khushi: Where were you all this time ?? Why didnt you attend our wedding?

Daadi: My Son Ayush and me had some property work in Mathura that same week. I could have given excuse to him but that would make him suspect about Arnav and your marriage. I did not want any hindrance in my grandsons wedding. Hence I chose not to deny that trip. And after your marriage when Ayush became aware , he was so offended that I had kept it all a secret, he kept me busy there on purpose. I fell sick too, hence couldn't travel all the way back when Devyani( Nani) passed away. I am so sorry for your loss Khushi. Neither Arnav was there with you nor me. You have gone through a lot.  I am sorry..

She starts crying and I feel her pain is genuine. She was not telling me any story for sure. I hug her back asking her to stop shedding tears. Nani would never like her best friend crying mising her. She becomes calm after a while.

Daadi: When I came back , you had eloped from this house. I was so shocked when Arnav told me you left without even letting him know. I didn't understand what made you take such a step but later I realised it must be Arnav's behaviour only which forced you to take this step. It is all my fault. I kept picturing him good every time I talked about him with you and Devyani. I should have made you aware of his flaws, his wrong habits too.

I gulp. Is there any other thing left for me to know about Arnav? That few days after our wedding I have known each color of that man.

Daadi: Even now I had no idea that you had returned back. Arnav himself called me up last night and told me he wants me to come here and meet you. He sent me the train tickets and I  came here. 

I was understanding why he asked Daadi to come here.

Khushi: We had a terrible fight last night. He probably wanted you to come and calm me down by answering my questions.

Daadi nodes.

Khushi: But shouldn't this be his responsibility to confront everything? To make me comfortable in this marriage if he wants it to work? ( I snap back )

Daadi accepts what I am trying to imply.

Daadi: His father was very upset on him when you guys married.

Khushi: As a father he is right. Who will like their son going quiet about his own wedding? I kept telling Nani too when the wedding preparations were happening but she said not to poke my nose in the Raizada family issues so soon as you already knew what you were handling. So I didn't bother. Is that the only reason his father doesnt want me to step in that house??
 Daadi: No Khushi. There has never been a statement from Ayush that you cannot step there. I know he was angry but that was because he had selected another girl for Arnav..That girl is Tanvi.. I earlier told you about?? He wanted Tanvi and Arnav to marry. They would make a good couple, this is what his wife fed him.. Why wouldnt she feed him all this?? She just wants her control in that house, and Tanvi is her brother's daughter. Someone who will always dance on her commands..

Khushi: Why are you so bitter for your daughter in law??
 Daadi: I dont consider her to be my daughter in law. I had only one.. Aarti, Arnav's mother.. (she weakly responded)
 Khushi: You mean Arnav's father did two marriages??
 Daadi: Aarti died very young. So Ayush married to Amrita, his present wife, who was his personal secretary those days. I am sure it was Amrita who caught my Son in her fake love web. She always wanted to be rich. I have even heard Ayush and Aarti fighting over Amrita's topic at home. Arnav was very young that time. So after Aarti died, Ayush grieved for few months and then married Amrita, brought her in my house.

All this seemed depressing to me too, at least from Arnav's point of view.

Khushi: So that's why Arnav is so bitter for his parents now??
 Daadi: Yes. He is cold with Ayush and with Amrita he hardly talks.
 Khushi: You stay much in Mathura these days, and Arnav is not in good terms with his father and step mother, then why is so attached to that house ??

Daadi's lips curved for a smile.

Daadi: For Arushi.. Ayush and Amrita's 15 year old daughter. She is his heart.. She is the sole reason Arnav couldn't break his ties with his parents. Even though she is his step sister, he still loves her very much, even more than Ayush and Amrita loves her.

"Arushi"???? He had a sister? I never would have known this until Daadi told me. May be she was the one whom Arnav was talking on the phone about her hairdo when I overheard. May be that dress which I saw in the guest room cupboard was Arushi's.. Ohh God. She did such a grave mistake by suspecting Arnav.. But is this it?? Is he really that sane not to have any affairs in her absence ??

Daadi: Hope I have answered few of your doubts Khushi. Will this be enough for you to reconsider the marriage??

 I didnt know what to answer. Yes indeed my anger was cooled down but I cannot take a sigh of relief until I understand what really Arnav Singh Raizada is?? I get up from the Couch..

Khushi: I am such a fool , you have travelled so much, I didn't even ask you for water and food. I will get it. You rest Daadi. I will be back.

Daadi holds my arm.

Daadi: I will stay in this Guest room then..
 Khushi: sure.. ( I had no qualms if she stays in this room but looked like Daadi was hinting something else too )
 Daadi: And you will shift all your stuff in Arnav's bedroom. Your bedroom.. Will you ??

I felt a shiver in my spine. Moving in the Lion's den? Am I risking my dignity again??Hope not..

Khushi: Cant we share this room??
 Daadi: If you don't stay with him, close to him, how will you both give this marriage a chance?? I have seen more life years than you both, believe me, you can still make your lives beautiful. And besides , I am here until you both sort everything out. Why to worry then??

I dont know if I should really accept Daadi's commands but at the moment as 70% of my doubts are cleared, I give it a thought. I am ready to shift in the Master bedroom. But obviously I have my own conditions while staying in that room which I can clear directly with Arnav and not let Daadi know about it and worry again.

Khushi: Okay.. I will ask the maids to shift my stuff. Happy ??

Daadi smiles pleasingly and I leave the room. Am I hurrying too much ? Am I really very naive to decide so easily ? Am I really dropping the Divorce idea? Don't I know this man has no regards for me? How can I forget all the pain he has kept giving me all this while??

*****************

Daadi is taking a nap and I am very much engrossed in the kitchen cooking for tonight. The maid comes there and interrupts my work .


Maid: Maam.. There is little less space in the closet. All your clothes will not fit in.
 Khushi: Not possible. They aren't much. Try again.
 Maid: Maam.. we have tried already.

I sigh in disappointment but don't give up so easily.

Khushi: Fine . You look after this Kheer. I will go and check.

I assign her my work and then rush in the Master bedroom to arrange my clothes. I open the door and see my clothes lying on the bed. This room has memories which I don't wish to remember again . In the initial days of our marriage,when Arnav and I used to stay here, he always had the habit to come out from Shower in a piece of towel. And since he woke up much early than me, I had to literally hide my face in the quilt to avoid staring at him. That bed and quilt reminds me those days again. He might be handsome as a man but as a human being he is ugly. I sigh and make some space for my clothes in the closet, that's when I hear the door getting locked. I jerk turning around to see who entered. I wasn't expecting anyone here. Especially not Arnav.. He stands there at the door for few seconds , looking intensely at me and then steps ahead. I have no idea how to react. I know he must be rejoicing that I have finally stepped in this bedroom.

In the next few seconds he pulls my arm and pins it at my back, his usual way of getting me close when he wants to say something terrific, I struggle but as usual giving no output. I meet his eyes with surprise.

Arnav: Aakhir aa gayi naa mere paas?? ( Finally you have come to me)
 Khushi: Galatfaimi hai aap ki ( Dont be under that wrong impression)

He doesnt seem to take my words seriously. His eyes are staring my lips and I am almost numb realising where this was leading. I immediately try to break his concentration.

Khushi: I will be sleeping on the couch.

It pisses his mood, I can read that from his expressions but his hold is still the same.

Arnav: Stop playing with me Khushi.
 Khushi: I am still not convinced there isn't any other woman in your life apart from me whom you... ( I am not sure if I am going to really say this).. whom you.. take in your arms the similar way you have taken me now..

He gets little irritated by my thoughts and leaves me.

Arnav: Get your brain a break Khushi .. It's over thinking.

For some unknown reasons I am not really angry when he says that. I can read his expressions now since Daadi has given me some insight of his life.

Khushi: I want to know that from Arushi. I will believe it if she tells me the same.

The moment he hears "Arushi's" name from me, he keeps staring at my face with surprise.

Khushi : Daadi told me about your family background. It should have come from you first , but never mind. Now that I know how close you are to Arushi, I want to certify your character from her.

He is still quiet.

Khushi: So?? when are you arranging our meet??

I just want to meet this girl if she is so close to my husband. I ought to see how different he is with her and me. I find his blank expressions suddenly changing to a wide smirk.

Arnav: If you are convinced by Arushi's words, toh...( he steps towards me again grinning)
 I step behind but soon I am been blocked by the French doors.. He places his arms on either sides of me, locking me in between his arms and body..

Arnav: Toh.. tum mujhe apna pati maanogi.. ( Then you will consider me as your husband)

He had played his cards well this time. What am I supposed to answer.

Khushi: Unless you dont feed her, bribe her to give some positive words about your character.
Arnav: Smart. The next time I meet her will be with you.

That statement convinced me somehow. Though I wasnt still sure if talking to Arushi was going to change my life with Arnav forever or not, I was still very eager to meet someone from that family. I push him away gently though and leave the room, my clothes still lying on his bed but I dont want to be there and land in any kind of trouble especially because he was around.

Arnav's phone started ringing. He checked the caller name and answered.

"Stop calling me at such odd hours" Arnav snapped.

"You didnt call me past 2 days, how am I supposed to know what's happening there?", the lady on the call blurted.

"I have managed to convince her for sticking to this marriage on the cost of meeting Arushi", Arnav responded while walking to the Poolside.

The lady on the other end laughed heartily.

"Good. I am impressed Arnav. Now make sure Arushi says positive about you"
"I am playing fair this time"

The lady sighed and replied back in a teasing tone.

"Fair? And you Arnav? This whole marriage itself isnt a fair play. Don't I know?"

"You are wasting my time. I have better work to do than talking to you at this hour. Will call you when I have any other update to pass on. Until then dont even message me. I hate people who keep nagging for regular updates. "

With that, Arnav Singh Raizada disconnected the phone call and deleted the logs from the phone too. He knew no one touches his phone but he still didnt wanted to take any chance, now that Daadi was here and Khushi was shifting to his bedroom.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 10

I am really very thrilled to meet Arushi Raizada today.  I have no clue how she is, neither I asked Daadi about her because I dont want to rely on other's opinion in knowing Arnav's family. I have to know them by my own. But isnt it ironic if I say so  because I have proposed to meet Arushi so that I can rely on her words to trust upon my husband Arnav Singh Raizada for his loyalty towards me and this marriage. I pin up my hair leaving the curles on my shoulder and check myself in the mirror. I have wore a simple Anarkali dress. I dont know what to expect from todays meet with Arushi. I just know that for the first time I am going to meet someone from Arnav's family apart from his Daadi. Am I being foolish? Have I given up the idea of Divorcing Arnav? Why was I getting involved in him and his family now when I was so cleat of moving out? I have used my 10 days already out of the 25 days leaves I got sanctioned from my Office. In next 15 days I should be gone from here forever. But does it look so? I dont know what to do. May be today's meet will help me clear all these doubts.

Last night I chose to sleep with Daadi in the Guest room, though I have shifted all my stuff in the Master Bedroom. I wanted to stay one more night away from Arnav until I make my decision for holding our relationship or not. But what if today's meet is successful and I am convinced with Arushi's statements if she gives a clear chit to her Brother Arnav? Will I stay with Arnav in his bedroom? I am so much confused at the moment but the sound of the knock at the door get me out of my stance.  I hurry to open it. It's Him.. He gazes at me for some seconds, probably this was not what he had expected to do when I open the door. He was going to scream at me for taking so much time in getting ready that too in his room, by locking the door from inside. He finally lifts his eyes from my face and meets my eyes.

"I dont like people who make me wait unnecessarily", he says.

"I dont want you to LIKE me either"

Saying that I walk past him. He probably understands I am no longer silly to take his words seriously. I see Daadi in the Living room who is busy knitting. I stop by her.

"Khushi? Where are you going?", she asks me.
"I am meeting Arushi today Daadi"

Her eyes rolls up but very soon her concerns gets clear when she sees Arnav coming and standing beside me. She understands it's Arnav who is arranging this meet of ours. I bid bye to her and walk with Arnav to his car. This is the first time in all these days that I am going out with him, together. He opens the car door for me and I get in. He sits next to me and the Driver starts the engine. Arnav is busy in his mobile texting someone. I keep looking outside the window until the car enters the premises of a School. I am little confused now.

"Why are we in School?", I ask nervously.
"She studies here", he says while getting down from the car. I get down too.
"So? You have arranged a meet in her school? That is so out of place Arnav", I keep yelling.

He doesnt say a word and walks ahead of me. I have no other thing to do than follow him. It's a ICSE medium school and very reputed one. Only VIP people kid's study here. What confuses me is that , just like me and Arnav , there are so many other people also who are present here. Looks like some kind of a Parents -Teachers meet. But so what? What am I supposed to do? Shouldnt Arnav's father and Step mother be here to take care of this?

We reach the school building. He stops by the Helpdesk asking them where exactly Class 9th Standard Parents meet is being conducted. The Receptionist points out the room to us and we again take a lead there. We have just reached the doors of that room when he turns around.

"Stay here", he commands.
"Why cant I come in?"
"Thats not what you asked from me. You want to meet Arushi and I will get her out when this finishes"

He doesnt wait to explain me more. He enters the room and I sigh in frustration standing at the window.

*******************

"Mr Raizada, Arushi is a brilliant Student. She has some issues in focusing on Mathematics. But this time she has scored well in that as well", the teacher comments.

"What about the Science Project she submitted last week. Has it been approved for the Science Exhibition or not?"
"Uh.. Not yet .We have so many Projects to evaluate. We will inform the Students very soon." , she answers.

The other side door opens and Arushi Raizada, a 15 year old beautiful girl enters inside in a Casual uniform. Today there was no need for the Students to be in their Uniforms. She smiles happily seeing Arnav who gets up to greet her with a hug. The teacher smiles at their actions.

"You are late", Arushi says while sitting on the chair next to him.
"I made it on time here though", he defends.

The teacher continues explaining what the school is planning for the Students growth in terms of technology in the coming 6 months. They hear it and finally their meet is over. Both Arushi and Arnav start moving to the door where Khushi is waiting for them outside. Arnav stops Arushi before she opens that door.

"Arushi.. I have someone waiting for you outside:
"Waiting for me? Who?"
"My wife"

Arushi's expressions changed. She showed total disinterest to meet Khushi.

"I dont like strangers you know that very well. Why did you get her here? What am I supposed to do? I dont want to meet anyone. Ask her to leave"

Her frustration was reasonable as she really was the same with other people too. She never liked being social. Handling new people and entertaining them was not her cup of tea.

"I have given my word to her. I wont change that Arushi"

Both took a minute to know each other's state of mind. Arushi folded her arms on her chest.

"Fine. But I am hungry"
"We shall go for Lunch together. Come"

He finally opened the door and both came out.

I could hear the door opening behind me which is why I turned around to see if Arnav had returned. I saw him and also the teen age girl who was walking towards me with almost the same attitude as her brother carried. So she was Arushi? She was cute but I could sense it from her expressions that she was little arrogant like him. Arnav introduced us.

"My wife Khushi.. And she is Arushi"

I was sensing what kind of gestures she would expect from me. HAd it been any other normal girl whom I was getting introduced, I would hug her but She was Arushi, so I chose only to shake hands.

"Hi", I replied. She looked once at her Brother Arnav and then shook hands with me after getting a Nod from him.
"Hello Mrs Raizada", she replies pulling back her hand from mine.

I am surprised to see her arrogance. I glance at Arnav who is probably smirking at me. I hadnt expected Arushi to be so tough and just so alike my husband. She could call me by name or by the relation I share with her, but nope, she chose to call me formally by my Husband's surname? Who does that in this age of 15 to their own relatives? Arushi's mobile phone rings. SHe sighs and then looks at Arnav.

"Its Mom. I will have to answer this call. Excuse me"

She walks little away from us and I am still staring at her. Meanwhile I dont even realise when Arnav steps so close to me and whispers in my ears.

" You call me a Monster right? Look at her now"

Yea. He is hell right. My husband being so rude and so much into himself is still acceptable. But this girl ? At her age, she was too matured and proud to be a Raizada blood probably. Arnav is still standing close to me, looking at my expressions. I push him away gently

"She is coming"

He steps back and we concentrate on Arushi.

"I have informed home I will be having lunch with you both. So shall we leave?"
"Lunch? We were having lunch together? When did that happen? ", I ask Arnav whilst walking to the car.
He doesnt explain me that. He opens the car door for me and Arushi to get in and then himself takes the front seat next to Driver.
All the while in the car, Arushi wears the ear phones and hears the music. Arnav is busy on his phone again and I am left thinking if Arushi behaves so cold with me, even after knowing I am her brother's wife, how will I openly ask her my concerns on Arnav's loyalty towards me?

*****************

The food gets ordered. The sibblings share the same taste in food. And I am dazzled to see the table manners this girl carries. I am sitting opposite to Arnav and Arushi. Both are glancing at me as if I am some alien. I finally say what I have in mind to them.

"You both are ... so alike"

Arnav takes it as a compliment and so does Arushi who is still noticing me very keenly. She then quickly whispers in Arnav's ears which I overhear too.

"Your wife is very beautiful Arnav"

I feel happy to hear that. Who wont like to be praised and getting a praise from a girl like Arushi sounds more shocking. Me and Arnav both look in each others eyes. That smirk on his face makes me uneasy. I see the menu again to divert his attention but suddenly he responds back loudly.

"Hmmm.. She is Beauuuuutiful.."

My grip on the menu card tightens but I dont look at them again. The food is served and as expected Arnav serves Arushi first. I am little taken back seeing him showing so much concern for someone. Daadi was right. Looks like Arushi is his heart. He genuinely cares for her. Its strange to see Arnav Singh Raizada in this Avataar. So docile.. So much calm!! I eat the food quietly. Arnav doesnt intervene or coaxes me to ask Arushi what I wanted to. All are quiet. So I decide to start talking to Arushi little generic questions before I hit the actual one.

"So Arushi.. What Standard are you in?"
"9th", she gives a very cold reply not even looking at me.
"I see.. "

I dont think this is going well. I should be straight to the point rather than beating round the bush. I am about to ask Arushi about Arnav's character when she interrupts.

"Arnav looks like Mrs,Raizada is different from all your Ex's. No wonder you didnt look at any other girl after marriage"

I am stunned.. Did she just say that? I look angrily at Arnav who says something in a very low voice. I can just read his lips.. He is stressing on the word "EX" . Probably trying to tell me it was all over.. It was past and Arushi just confirmed that. SO I shouldnt be really considering all that.

I keep the spoon in my plate with anger. I am no more hungry..

"She said EX", Arnav speaks to me.
"That doesnt make you innocent now" I reply back.

Arushi stops eating too. SHe probably understands we are upto something.

"Mrs Raizada? It's wrong to fight when the plate of food is before you", she utters.

A little tiny girl is teaching me manners? Well.. She wasnt wrong. I start eating again. I dont speak at all after this. I have got my answers.. So he had past girlfriends. And according to Arushi he didnt look back at them after our marriage. But I dont want to give an opportunity to him only on this one statement. I have to dig more.  I have less time and no patience for sure. Somehow I will have to get into the facts and not rely only on Arushi's comment.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 11

My interaction with Arushi does not lead me to conclude anything about Arnav. I have made fool of myself for even planning this meet. Arushi was a part of Arnav's family but apart from meeting someone from his family, this meet did not fulfil any more purpose. Arushi shared a great bonding with Arnav and I have noticed he is a good brother, doesnt matter if Arushi is his blood sister or not. We three come out of the Hotel after the Lunch. I am frequently getting messages on my phone which I couldnt check or respond in Arnav's presence. So now since he is busy with Arushi aside, till our Driver gets the Car from parking, I let myself aloof from them and check the phone. This time  I am getting a call from my Lawyer Sheetal. I answer it.

"Khushi, where are you ? I am calling and messaging you since an hour. Are you alright?" she asks nervously.
 "Yes I am fine. I am outside so couldnt respond back"
 "Outside ? How come your husband allowed you to go out?"
 "I am with him and his sister. Shall I call you back, they are around."

Sheetal probably is surprised knowing that.

"Khushi what is wrong with you? Here we are looking for opportunities to prove how Arnav is not a good husband and you are openly roaming with him and his family??"

I know she is not wrong in asking me that.

"I will meet you tomorrow and we shall take about this", I add.
"Fine.. Bye."

She hangs the call and the moment I turn around, Arnav is standing right before me.

"Whose call was it?", he asks sharply.

I was little afraid to answer anything at this moment. I havnt played such hide and seek games before. May be thats the reason .

"Call? Which call?", I lie.
"Khushi, you just took a call, dont lie to me", he says gritting his teeth.

Luckily I am saved from answering him as Arushi comes to us and so does our Car. I get inside without even looking at him. He stands out giving a stare at me which definately wasnt warmer. He cannot do much as Arushi is with us which makes me feel safer.  We all drive back home. I am made to get down at home and Arnav choses to drop Arushi back to Raizada MAnsion. I am much obliged that he is doing that, at least I will be saved from his unwanted wrath for some time.

******************

Raizada Mansion

Ayush Raizada is at home when Arnav comes to drop Arushi. He sees them entering and immediately gets up from the Couch where he was enjoying his early Evening Tea.

"How did her Parents Teachers meet go?", he asks Arnav.
"She is doing extremely well", he replies sternly
"Except her attitude problems, isnt it?", Ayush responds again.

Arushi sighs looking at her father and then turns back to Arnav.

"Are you staying with us tonight?"

Arnav is in a fix at the moment. And this was his problem since Khushi had returned back to him. He could not stay with Arushi in this house for long because spending quality time with his wife Khushi SIngh Raizada was currently his priority and his need too.

"Not tonight", he answers in a low voice.
"I understand. Mrs Raizada must be waiting for you. Thanks for coming to School. Bye. "

Probably Arushi is hurt which is the last thing on earth that he would want to see. He keeps calling out for her but she doesnt stop, neither responds. SHe runs to her room. Ayush turns back to Arnav.

"You took Arushi out for Lunch with Khushi today? What are you trying to do?"
"None of your business", Arnav replies and starts walking out of the house. On the way to the door, he stops seeing the lady of this house entering. Mrs Amrita Raizada, his step mother. She was one woman he couldnt tolerate much. They both were like two poles in the house. Being a mother, she hadnt ever shown any interest to build a relationship with her step son. And being a Son, Arnav had never wanted to show any liking for this woman either as he never considered her anything in his life apart from being his Father's second wife. Arnav looked away from her and walked out without uttering a single word. It was common, they hardly spoke. Amrita hurried inside to her husband.

"Arushi back?", she asked keeping her purse on the couch.
"Yea. SHe is in her room."
"Your boy never leaves a chance to prove he cares for Arushi more than us."
"Amrita, you planned to meet your friend today."
"Thats because she is going back to London tonight. I had to meet her. And dont accuse me, even you couldnt skip your morning appointment with your new CLient. So practically we were both busy. And missing one single Parents Teachers meet is not that worse. Dont I know how my daughter is performing?", Amrita defends.
"We miss almost every meet like this from past few months. Isnt good Amrita. Someone has to take this responsibility which Arnav is doing very well. I am with him on this." Ayush picks his cup of tea and walks to the bedroom wanting to have no more argument with his wife.

****************

Night

I was in the Living room watching some Detective Series on TV. Someone came there and shut the TV with the remote which was lying on the table before me. It was Arnav.

"What is this? ON the TV again, I was watching something", I screamed.
"Too late. It's 11:30pm Khushi", he answered
"So?"

It didnt take long for Arnav's blood to boil.

"I have a meeting tomorow morning.. very early.. " he still responds keeping his tone low.
"So? Go and sleep. Who has stopped you?"
I try getting the remote control again when he reaches between me and the table. I move back on the Couch as he leans on me, pinning me on the Sofa I was been sitting already.

"Forgot? We had a deal. You meet Arushi.. confirm from her about my present relationship status with any other girl and then.. ( he looked intensely at my quiverring lips).. accept me as your husband"

How cunning of him, I thought. I tried maintaining the same level of guts in my talk which I showed before and then met his eyes.

"The.. .the meeting.. wasnt fruitful"

I could see him clenching his jaw.

"I couldnt conclude anything meeting Arushi. She is a kid.. Overgrown kid may be.. But she was totally you. .I felt like she is a mini version of you.. Now when she is so much like you.. so much into you . .how can I take her testimony as final? "

Arnav Singh RAizada had kind of expected this. He had considered me a fool earlier, but now I was growing my wings of intelligence and trying to perusade him. He banged his fist on the Couch and stood straight. I could see his nerves tightening on his arms.

"You wasted my time lady..Do you think I am a fool to get such reasons from you and remain quiet? I am Arnav Singh RAizada..I give importance to commitmemt in every deal I make. So dont act smart with me Khushi. You cannot win by giving such excuses."

Well.. I knew this would be his response. Tears formed in my eyes and some even rolled down my cheeks. How could I end up with a monster like him? He was a very selfish man.. He only knew profits concerned to him, Other's feelings never mattered. Such stone hearted people even existed for real ? Well.. He was a live example of them.

"Tears don't affect me Khushi. So stop wasting them on me."
"Who better than me knows that?? You have no sympathy, no concern for anyone's emotions. You proved that long ago when I lost my Nani. Being my husband you couldn't even make it for her cremation ritual's"

Tears pooled in my eyes again. Probably Arnav got pissed off by that statement. He stepped towards me in anger looking intensely in my eyes.

"That's why you took that moral support from some other man that day, didn't you?? Without even considering whose wife you are? You gave people a chance to backtalk about your character?? Itni saamjh nahi thi tum mein Khushi? Or should I say you purposely did this to put my reputation at stake? "

I am surprised when he blamed me for that. And who back talked?
"What are you saying? Who back talked?" I had to know this.. I always felt like someone was feeding his ears against me. Was it true? Was this a reason why our relation was so bitter ?

He realises he said too much. He controls all of his anger and tries to leave but I block his way.

"You cannot leave without answering me. This time you will have to complete the statement and justify it Arnav."
"Leave my way Khushi", he was still holding his anger.
"No...  Who is filling your ears against me?"

He clenches his jaw again.

"I am not a fool to believe in other people's statements. I make my own assumptions" he replies but I dont want to believe it.
"Wrong.. You are just covering something up. I have always felt that.. I have no idea why you married me in the first place if you never wanted to care for a woman so specially. You have always kept hiding things from me about you, your past, your present and even your future plans.. As a husband you can provide me luxury and comfort but these materialistic things cannot soothe my pain Arnav. You need to talk to me.. You need to open up your heart and allow me to read whats in your mind. I am confused what to deduce from the different behaviours you keep showing me? You are possessive for me, I have felt that. But why? Only because I have that TAG of being your wife? You dont like me taking emotional support from other men. Why? Only because people might make stories out of it which would hurt your reputation? Is that it? Or is there more to it? I am tired thinking about all of this.. Please.. Just solve this puzzle Arnav.. I am tired sorting this.. PLease.. "

Tears start rolling down my cheeks. He has seen me weak many a times but today he will find me more vulnerable than ever. I am fighting a war with my own husband whom I cant expect to lose considering the vows we have made to each other during marriage and I am seeing no Win for me either if thats how he keeps treating me forever.

He clutches my shoulder, I can see his expressions mellowing. My tears have affected him? did they? We both are lost in each others eyes. He is reading my pain.. I know he is.. This is the first time I am seeing him so much influenced by my torment. He wipes the tears from the corner of my eyes and then kisses my forehead very gently. I feel so numb.. Did he really do that? And I allowed ? My breathing fastens and so is his. He looks back in my eyes after gazing for few seconds at that point on my forehead where he kissed me.

"You are building unneccessary tensions. Ease down Khushi. Just like Rome was not built in a day, you cannot learn everything about me so quickly. The essence of our relationship lies in the fact that I am hell bound to keep you as my wife. Earlier it felt like a burden, now, I am enjoying it."

I dont know what to reply. He is taking it so lightly. He explains things so sortedly. He pulls me more closer to him.

"Mujhe kareeb se jaan ne ke liye.. Pehle .. Mere kareeb aana hoga Khushi.."( To know more closely about me, you will first have to come close to me Khushi)

I felt goosebumps all over my body which he doesnt fail to notice. There is a wide smirk on his face the next instant and as far as I have judged him till now, I expected him to pick me in arms and carry me to the room but he failed my judgements this time. He left me to decide on my own this time, what I wanted and dispersed for the bedroom.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 12

Would I have to be close to him to know his motives behind our marriage? What was he saying about backtalking? Who was filling his ears? And that kiss? Was it genuine from his end? Or was it just out of need from him? Does he even realise what situation he has landed me into? He might have not said it directly but his actions, his anger and that kiss has conveyed a lot. And this is not good for my resolve about Divorcing him. This unwanted relationship from his side has started shaping up into something more worse or may be something more strong. What was it ? When will I come to know what he wants from me if I give one more chance to this marriage? Will he change? Does he expect me to change ?

I keep thinking all of this again and again until I reach the Master bedroom where he had entered minutes ago after our conversation downstairs. I knock the door which is already open and then slowly enter inside. I have reminded myself that I will be sleeping again in this room as Daadi is using the Guest room and wants me to stay with my husband if I have to solve our differences. I see him sitting on the bed, his one leg folded on the bed while the other still on the floor.  He was busy messaging. He sees me once and then his eyes are back on the mobile. I take a deep breathe and lock the door.

I walk to the bed, he finishes texting and keeps his phone aside observing my next actions. I can see a smirk on his face as he sees me advancing towards him. I lean and he was about to hold my hand when I pick the Pillow and stand straight again, away from him. He murmurs something in anger looking intensely in my eyes. He had expected me to get convinced by what he said downstairs.

Khushi: I will take the Couch.

He doesnt want to argue. He shuts the night lamp off, the room gets darker only increasing my nervousness all the more. I see him lying on the bed now with his one arm over his head and eyes shut. I make the couch my bed and lie down but my eyes are all on him. I can still see any movement he makes in that dark room. For an hour or so I dont get sleep at all as I am still nervous that after so many months I am back in his den ,sleeping so close to him. But then I finally drift into sleep, peaceful or not, only the next morning would confirm.

****************

When I woke up the next morning I dont find him in the room, I realise he had mentioned about some early meeting today which probably means he has left for work. I finish my shower and get ready quickly to meet my Advocate Sheetal. I had promised her to meet today. I inform Daadi giving her some excuse of buying basic stuff and then leave the house. Luckily I am no more restricted for taking his guards or Car. I am on my own from now. I am free to go anywhere I want.

I reach Sheetal's office and tell her everything she should know that happened in the past 2 days.

Sheetal: I am amazed Khushi.. What are you doing? You are building a rapport with his Sister, daadi and probably in few days his whole family. Is that what you want? Really?

I know she is not wrong in asking me where my mind is leading me.

Sheetal: And what did you say? Goosebumps? You felt goosebumps last night when he kissed your forehead? Where did that come from? I thought you hated him.

Thats something which even I couldnt decipher until now. Sheetal sighs in disappointment.

Sheetal: So what are you going to do? Plan a fresh new start with him? I am alright with it. At least I will have one less client to work on. ( she replied in frustration)

I am still quiet.

Sheetal: You know Khushi 90% of Indian women do this. They give in.. They dont fight for their right. It's either their family pressure or their own weakness which makes them forgive their husbands and start all over once again. It's not wrong but the man you want to give one more chance should be worth it. Is ARNAV SIngh Raizada worth it Khushi?

Now thats a million dollar question. I finally speak.

Khushi: Thats what I want to know. I want to find out everything he has kept hidden from me Sheetal. And I am not among those 90% women who will tolerate the tortures. I will fight for myself. But for that I have to know what I am fighting against?
Sheetal (took a deep breathe): It's totally your call. I cannot induce you from doing something against your wish. So... what do you intend to do then?

Khushi: Invade his personal and professional life!! (I get up from the Chair holding my purse and meeting Sheetal's eyes)

She is surprised a bit.

Khushi: If he wants me forever, he will have to earn it. I have ways to get inside his private mind zone and read what he plans to do keeping me as his wife forever.

Sheetal sees a strength in me and hence smiles.

SHeetal: All the best and dont forget,  I am always there if you need, both personally and professionally.

Thats a major support  I could get from her. I hug her and then quickly leave her office.

****************

Arnav Singh Raizada enters the meeting room of his Office, all of the staff and  board members greet him. He sits on the main chair and scans the room once.

Arnav: Where is AJ??
Aman: SHe is on her way.

Arnav looks at the clock and then leans back to give "AJ" some time to reach this meeting. Just in 10 minutes the conference room door opens again and "AJ" steps in. A women in her late 30's, stylish, sophisticated in her expressions wearing a classy Designer Saree enters.

AJ: Sorry everyone, couldnt kill the traffic. Hi Arnav.

Arnav gave her a weak smirk and she took her seat next to him.

AJ: Shall we start?

The meeting began. AJ was Arnav's business partner. Richness was in her genes and even though she had a 15 year old Son, no one would ever guess that seeing her. Right in her teen days, she had eloped with her College Boyfriend and married him without her family's permission. And though the family later accepted them both, she continued her education even after her marriage. She acquired her MBA when her Son was 2 years old and then started showing all the interest in her Father's business.

THe meeting was over and the staff started leaving the room. Arnav was about to get up too but she touched his arm , stopping him from getting up.

AJ: I need few minutes of yours?

Arnav looked at Aman who nodded at them and left the two alone. Once he was gone, she started speaking to Arnav.

AJ: I am going to London for a week. A relative's wedding.
Arnav: Good change for you. I will handle things here. Just list out any important meets you have, I will take those up.
AJ (smiling): I know you would. Who else I have to trust apart from you?
Arnav: Trust is a very fragile word AJ. USe it carefully on people. I dont have to tell you that.

She raised her eyebrow looking at him proudly.

AJ: Yes. I have experienced how FRAGILE "TRUST" is.

She looked down for few seconds as if trying to compose herself and then looked at him again.

AJ: What's happening then? Anything I should know?
Arnav: She is in control. !! ( he replied meeting AJ's eyes)
AJ: Dont under estimate her.

Now that Statement killed Arnav's patience and comfort level. He got up.

Arnav: I know what I have to do and how. Enough of your interferences. Call me from London. Bye.

***************

Evening

Daadi was surprised to know what I just told her.

Daadi: But will Arnav agree?
I kept kneading the wheat flour. I was in full swing to cook the entire Dinner myself.
Khushi: Nani always used to tell me that a relationship is successful only when the efforts are from both the ends. I am not asking any priceless item from him that he will deny.
Daadi: He might buy you any priceless item you wish but this. Think again Khushi. That house is a mess.
Khushi: However it is, its my house, my family. I have all rights to be there.

"No you dont Khushi" came a reply from behind. We both looked at the Kitchen door where Arnav was standing and watching us.

Arnav: THIS is your House.. I am your family and you have ONLY rights to be here.

I knew he would not accept my wish so easily.

Khushi: I want to stay in Raizada house. With your parents.

Arnav grits his teeth. Looks like he is a lot affected by my demand. He gets inside and stops right before my nose.

Arnav: People whom I dont give importance, you too shouldnt bother for them. YOU are not stepping there EVER!!
Khushi: You can step there, you can stay there. Why not me? What harm have I done to them?

Arnav clenches his jaw but I continue.

Khushi: Look Arnav, I just want to be with them too. I am their BAHU.!!
Arnav: YOU are my wife first. Their Bahu is secondary.
Khushi ( angrily): Are you worried about that Tanvi?
Arnav: You know I dont give a damn to anyone .
Khushi: Then whats stopping you to take me there?
Arnav looked at Daadi to ensure that she puts some brains in me but I am very adamant this time.

Khushi: Dont think Daadi can convince me. I am not asking you to take me to Raizada house right now. Take your time, decide but one thing is sure. I will wipe off the distance between you and me only in Raizada house, not in such farm houses where I feel like a Second women.

I have made a very huge statement, I know. I can read that frustration on his face and lips. He murmurs something under his breathe and walks out of the Kitchen. I just hope he takes my words seriously. If he agrees then this will be my first step to invade his personal life . Professional invasion will be the next one.

****************

I am back in the master bedroom to call Arnav down for Dinner. He has not shown his face after our arguement in the kitchen. He is now in the bathroom. I decide to knock the door and tell him to come down soon until I make the plates ready but thats when his phone rings. I see his phone on bed and the Caller name is " Arushi". Should I answer? Of course, why am I nervous? It's my husband's phone. I will have to take the call in his absence. I pick the call.

Khushi: Hello.

Arushi hadn't expected me to answer it though.

Arushi: Where is Bhai? It's a bad manners to pick other person's call like this.
SHe was teaching me manners? How dare she?
Khushi: Your Bhai is my husband and you are too small to understand what a couple can share and what not. He is in the bathroom. Tell me . I will pass on your message to him.

Arushi doesnt seem happy.

Arushi: No thanks. Probably Bhai didnt tell you what we both share and what not. So when he comes out tell him to call me. I will talk directly to him.

Before I could say anything, Arnav snatched his phone and started speaking to his sister giving me angry glares for answering on his behalf.

Arnav: Arushi??
Arushi : Ohh thank God you came. Look bhai, I needed some cash.
Arnav walked aside.
Arnav: How much?
Arushi: Umm.. Some 25,000
Arnav: Why?
Arushi was surprised.
Arushi: You never asked "WHY" Bhai.. Is it because your wife has taught you ?
Arnav ( looking at me for a second and then concentrating back on the phone): Dont get her in between. You have never asked me this huge sum. Tell me Why first and I will give you what you want.
Arushi: Fine. Mom Dad anniversary is up next week. I have to gift them something. This year my pocket money got over.

Arnav stiffened.. I didnt understand why though.

Arushi: I know like every year you wont be a part of this day. I totally understand. But will you help me with the cash?
Arnav: Hmm. I will send Aman . He will get it to you.
Arushi: Thanks Bhai. Bye.

She disconnected the call and Arnav makes another quick call to Aman which I realise only when he takes his name.

Arnav: Aman, send 25,000 cash to Arushi. Ensure no one else knows about it.

My eyes widen.. So much money for a 15 year old girl? Why?

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 13

Disconnecting Arushi's call Arnav turned to me and he didn't look happy.

Arnav: Never answer my calls. To be specific ( he reaches close to me and stares in my eyes to warn) Do not touch my phone EVER.

I am not shaken by that statement.

Arnav: To be MORE specific.. Do not be a part of any of my communications with the outside world.  ( he adds)

I try to be neutral. I know he doesn't like anyone intruding in his personal space but I am his wife. If not all times he can allow me to answer his calls at least related to his family. I don't argue really. I have better things to ask him though.

Khushi: Isn't 25000 a huge sum for a 15 year old kid..??

Looks like he is more than irritated when I raise that. Daadi had told me how he doesn't like any third party interference between him and his sister.

Arnav ( gritting teeth): Tumse matab??
Khushi: Its my husband's hard earned money besides I don't want Arushi to get addicted to wrong habits.

Arnav : None of your business. Your husband earns enough to shower such little sprinkles on his sister and last but not the least I have my eyes wide open on Arushi's lifestyle. I know what she does, what's right for her and what's wrong. You don't need to bother. If you have so much of curiosity in my personal life, learn things about me. Start adopting practices I like, start behaving to me like I want you too and most importantly start respecting what I order you to do.

He said so much in respond to my one advise. I am still counting what all he expects me to do. He opens his laptop.

Khushi: Why thinking about Arushi isn't my business?? She is your sister and that's what makes her my concern too.

Arnav gives me a cold stare.

Khushi: Stop being so secretive about yourself as if you are some National Secret service - Raw agent. Even their wives know them better than I know you.

I know this is not a moment to joke but that's what he makes me think sometimes. Why be so much to himself when he has got a wife for free who wants to know his inner thoughts ??

Arnav: Close the door after you leave.

He was indirectly asking me to get out. I don't like the way he keeps pushing me away when I am interested to get some insight about his life. But I don't argue. I change the topic.

Khushi: Dinner is ready. I came here to call you.

Arnav: Send the dinner in the room. I have some work to finish.
Khushi: Jee nahi. Dinner time is family time. And we all should be together. Come down in 5 minutes or else sleep hungry.

I don't fear to warn him though I know he will not take it seriously. I leave the room , I can feel he is staring at me with anger for being so pushy at times.

I reach the table where Daadi is sitting and waiting for us.

Daadi: Did you call him??
Khushi: I did. I am not sure if he is going to join us though.

I sit and start serving daadi. That's when he comes and pulls a chair next to me. We both look at each other. I want to enjoy my win over him but the way he is looking at me with frustration doesn't let me take any credit. He starts serving his own plate and eats the food quietly.

Daadi: The dal is yummy. I didn't know you cook so well Khushi. No Wonder Devyani was very Lucky.

I smile weakly missing my Nani. Looks like Arnav isn't bothered by it. He keeps eating and then tastes the kheer. Daadi glances at him and smiles. He finishes the food almost in 5 minutes and leaves. I am surprised.

Khushi: No comment... No feedback.. Your grandson is not at all vocal daadi. He is eating my cooked food after months. Still not a single word about it.
Daadi: He liked it but. That's why he finished it in 5 minutes. And especially the kheer. You know he never eats sweets or desserts at Raizada mansion or when he is dining out. But he ate yours. That's a good sign.

I sigh.

Daadi: Anyways.. This weekend its Ayush and Amrita's 17th anniversary. As usual they are throwing a party at home. I am also called and so are you.. ( she smiles happily)

I stiffen.

Khushi: I am invited?
Daadi: Hmm Yes. Today only I talked to Ayush over the phone and he said he wants you to be a part of that celeberation too.

I am over surprised. I am getting an open invitation to join Arnav's family in RAizada mansion. SHould I choose to accept it?

****************

Raizada Mansion

Ayush: Amrita try to understand.  ( he tried convincing her )
Amrita: No Ayush. I didnt like you inviting that girl without my permission.
Ayush: Why not? SHe is our Bahu now.
Amrita: You son never accepted me as his mother, so his wife means nothing to me. And you know I dont like calling strangers in my parties.
Ayush: Amrita change your attitude. At least to matters related to Arnav. He is an integral part of my life however hard it is to understand him or bear his stubborn attitude, he is still my Son.

Amrita remained quiet though she was not ready to get convinced so easily by her husband's words.

Ayush: Arnav wont come, I know that. He has never made up for any of our anniversary celeberations though we always have invited him. But now he has his wife. She should be personally invited so we are going to go there and do that tomorrow.

Amrita was again offended by that idea.

Amrita: I dont have time for such personal invitations if you want you may go.

She got up from the bed closing the nail paint remover bottle and then walked to the dressing table to keep it back. Ayush knew how rigid Amrita was in her decisions. SHe will never accompany him there. So be it. But as a father in law, he will take up his responsibilities seriously.

****************

I am with Daadi in the Kitchen chit chating. It's almost 10:00 pm. I like this little talk with Daadi because she is all who can listen to what I feel and want. Expecting it from Arnav will be heights of foolishness. I see Arnav dressed in his casuals and getting down the stairs, holding the car keys. I excuse Daadi and quickly make my way out to the Living room. He sees me but tends to ignore.

Khushi: Where you going at this hour?

He stops and turns around.

Arnav: Dont stop me ever when I am going anywhere.
Khushi : Your list of "DONT's" is never ending Arnav.

He looks patiently at me after that comment.

Khushi: I ought to know where my husband is going at this time that too without letting me know.
Arnav: Kyon? Being my WIFE doesnt mean you kill all my private space.
Khushi: (folding her arms): So you wont tell me where you going?

He didnt utter a word but kept staring at me like an angry wolf.

Khushi: Fine then.. Give me a divorce. I don't want a husband who doesn't care to even intimate me about his whereabouts.

I know DIVORCE  is the last thing he will give me even if begged. His eyes turned red in anger.

Arnav: Are you blackmailing me?? ( his voice was getting rough. Even a Chameleon wouldn't change its colors so rapidly like Arnav changes his and tone)
Khushi: Think what you want.I have no objection on your thinking process.

I turned around hoping he would tell me where he is going finally but nothing so happened.I heard his footsteps towards the door and by the time I turn around, he is off my reach. I still run out and when I reach the door he has already driven out of the gates. I sigh again. He is not a easy nut to crack. Just like a teacher has to spend extra time for her naughtiest students go to teach them some manners, I will have to spend hours to get this man understand what a husband truly should be like. Only then I will be able to take this marriage one step ahead.. But even here some terms and conditions do apply.

***************

I am awake in the Master bedroom till 01:00 am and Arnav is still not back. I cannot be so linient if I have to work on this marriage. Where was he ? Who was he with? I need to know everything. I pick up the phone, I know he will not answer it if he is with someone. So I dial someone else who might know where he is. Aman Mathur.

After few rings Aman answers the call in a sleepy tone.

Aman: Hello..
Khushi: Where is Arnav? ( I ask in a loud tone)

Aman takes few seconds to realise who was on call and what my question was.

Aman: Arnav??
Khushi: Yes Arnav. He is out from 10:00pm and still didnt come back home. You are always with him like his tail. Tell me where he is? Are you with him?
Aman's eyes were wide awake.

Aman: TAIL? Is that what you think I am in your husband's life?
Khushi (flaring my nose): I am not in a mood to discuss anything apart from him Aman. So come to the point. Where is he?
Aman: Honestly I dont schedule his NIGHT APPOINTMENTS

I feel a prick in my heart. Does Arnav really have something like NIGHT appoitments? With whom? Is that a woman?

Aman: Hello.. Khushi ?? You there?
Khushi: ( I compose myself to ask Aman the next question): Is he dating someone Aman?
Aman: Excuse me? Dating? Where did that thought come from? I..
Khushi: Dont lie..
Aman: I .. Its not a lie. I dont think he is dating. He cant handle women that easily. His behaviour can never sober for any woman which makes it difficult for women to like him as a DATE.!!
Khushi: Thats not an excuse.. He is rich..He spends lavishly.. There are women who can fall for that attitude and ignore the worst behaviour in him. 

I feel a pang in my heart while I state all that to Aman. I dont know why I am even explaining all that to him. Suddenly I feel an arm sliding around my waist and pulling me behind. I drop the phone from my hand while understanding who entered my room like this. But very soon I hear Arnav's voice whispering in my ears.

"Miss kar rahi thi mujhe?" (Missing me?)

His hold is tight, I cant even turn around but just look at him from side. He is smirking meeting my eyes. He is drunk. I can smell him.

Khushi: You are drunk?

He grins and leans his head on my shoulder closing his eyes.

Arnav: I lost a DEAL!!

I was agitated. I push him away with force and turn to him,.

Khushi: This is how you celeberate your LOSS? By OVER drinking? ( I scream at him in anger)
He comes back to me and shuts my mouth with his palm.

Arnav: Shhhh.. Tum bahut bolti ho Khushi ( You speak a lot Khushi)

I could feel he was speaking all this due to the alcohol effect. His legs trembled and I had to hold him tight so that he doesnt fall. I take him to bed and he lies down. He sits again and fiddles with his shoe lace. He doesnt even have that much of sense and stamina to remove his shoes and socks. I am not surprised. I have seen him drinking like this even during the early days of our marriage. I sit next to him and replace my hands with his to remove the shoe lace. He watches me doing that silently. I take his shoes and socks off and try to get up but he holds my arm and pulls me again beside him.

Arnav: The.. ( he gulps.. ) The last time.. I got drunk like this... was the day you left me Khuuuuusshhhii.. I felt like a .. a.. ( he was short of words..).. a jerk may be. I smacked his face.. ( he proudly continued)..

I am confused.. Smacked?

Khushi: Whose face? (I ask with curiousity)

He realises he said something unwanted and without continuing he closes his eyes and drop back on the bed.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 14

I am sitting next to Arnav on the bed, watching him sleep. Today for the first time I felt as if he really was hiding something so deep within his heart that had shattered his emotions, crushed his feelings to this extent that he no more wanted to believe in them again. The last time he over drunk was when I left him?? Was that even true? So he wanted me to stay back that time?? Why?? He didn't show any signs of being a good husband, neither then nor now then how can he expect me to be forever with him?? And He smacked someone?? Whom?? And why?? Wish my husband was not so mysterious, his secrets were surely raising my blood pressure. I will talk to him tomorrow morning when he wakes up. I see him shivering a bit. I quickly cover him with the quilt and get down the bed. Sometimes I get angry on me for treating him so nice even after his rude and ignorant attitude towards me. But this is the weakness every woman like me has in this world. They treat their husbands like God and their marriage  as sacred and holy ritual. It's because they are been raised by such thoughts from their childhood. However sacred this bond between a husband and wife may be, its still dead if even one of them don't feel for the other. And in my case, we both never had any connection, neither then nor now. I hope in the coming days I am able to decide where to lead the path of my life and with whom. I cannot live with this confusion for long. I close my eyes after lying down on the couch.

*****************

Next Morning

I finish my Puja and come out in the Living room only to see Daadi talking to the same man whom I had seen with Arnav the other day in the party. I come out to them and Daadi quickly introduces me to him.

Daadi: (happily): Khushi.. He is my Son Ayush Raizada, Arnav's father.

I am little surprised to hear that name. Arnav's father? Thats why his features resembles Arnav so much. I have so much respect for all the parents in this world, may be because I never had one who could love me and look after me. I quickly lean to touch his feet, covering my head with the dupatta. He doesnt let me touch his feet properly but holds my arms and smiles at me.

 Ayush: Jeeti raho.. ( Stay blessed)
 Daadi: Who would say she stayed in some foreign country, her values are still the same.
 AYush: I would have praised her more if she never had ran away from her responsibilities.. Anyways, I am not here to discuss the past and count anyone's mistakes. I know Arnav is equally at fault in whatever happened. ( he takes a deep breathe).. I have come to invite you for my Anniversary party this coming weekend.

I am glad to hear that and whatever he said about me running away from this house earlier, I dont take it to heart. He might not understand under what circumstances I had to take that decision.

Khushi: Thanks for inviting..
Ayush: We have never seen you in Raizada House. May be this is the best chance for you to visit your real Sasuraal. Dont miss it.

I was never made aware by Arnav that his family had no issues if I stepped there. I always had an impression that they hate me. I am very confused at the moment. Daadi responds on behalf of me.

Daadi: She always wanted to meet you all but you know Arnav. He is not letting her to do so.
 Ayush: Hmm.. I know.. But even then if you can come to the party  I will be happy.

I simply smile at him and try to hold my nervousness within me, the nervousness of meeting his entire family and relatives at the party, If I choose to attend. But I had one question in mind.

Khushi: Your wife.. She didnt come??

Arnav's father's expressions turn low.

Ayush: She and Arnav dont get along so its obvious she will need some time to accept you too. I hope you wont mind.

How can I forget he has a second wife whom Arnav never accepted. Daadi had told me about his family background few days back.

Khushi: It's okay. I will try to come with Daadi . Thanks again for inviting us..
 Ayush: Good. I should leave now.
 Khushi: Tea?? At least have tea with us. ( I insist)
 Ayush: I had that before coming here. And I have tea only once in the morning. Dont mind , I am little diet conscious. ( he replies smiling)
 Daadi: His second wife has kept him that way Khushi. He wont break that rule for us. Dont insist him.
 Ayush: Maa aap bhi naa.. ( Mother.. you also dont leave a chance to poke me)

Daadi kept frowning..

Ayush: Alright. I will have one cup of tea. But no sugar.

I am more than glad to make tea for him. After all, apart from Daadi, he is the first person from my in laws side whom I have met and tried to get acquainted to. I immediately rush to the Kitchen and keep for tea. I am about to arrange the cups when I hear Arnav's voice from behind me. He is talking to the maid though, not me.

Arnav: Get some Lime water and Aspirin.

I see him. He is really looking all messed up due to the last night's hangover.

Arnav: ( seeing me ): What?? Kabhi mujhe aise dekha nahi hai kya?? (What ? Havnt you seen me like this earlier)

He doesnt like if I pay some extra attention to him especially when he is in such a messy mood. I take advantage of this situation and ask the maid to leave without serving his demands.

Khushi ( to maid ): You go out and do other work.

The maid nods and leaves the kitchen. It's just me and him now. I keep making Tea. I know he might be mad at me for not helping him take off his hangover. Within seconds he pulls me to him, anger shooting from his eyes.

Arnav: What the hell are you doing ?? Serve me the damm Lime drink first..
 Khushi: ( shrugs his arms): Help yourself. Who asked you to drink above your limits??
 Arnav: (still holding my wrist): You havnt seen my LIMITS yet..
 Khushi: I know. I dont wish to see it either. Do you know, you couldnt even take off your shoes by yourself. Is this how you celeberate your Loss ?? Your father is outside. Go and talk to him.  I will get your Lime Water there along with his Tea.

He looks astonished at me.

Arnav: What is he doing here??
 Khushi: Why dont you ask him??
 Arnav: Dont play around with words Khushi. Tell me why is he here?? Did you call him on purpose?? To take you to Raizada House?? ( he asks gritting his teeth)

Khushi: Every thing that happens against your wishes, doesnt mean I have done it. He came here to invite me to the Weekend party. Now dont tell me you arent aware which party it is.

Arnav clenches his jaw and then without uttering a word, he walks off towards the Living room. I am afraid he will go to his father and speak ill so I follow him with the tea.

Arnav ( reaching Ayush): My wife is not attending your Anniversary party, dont keep hopes from her.

I am shocked by his sudden interference like this. Ayush sighs but doesnt mind to speak up for me.

Ayush: Let her decide that Arnav. Being Husbands dont give us a right to dominate our decisions on our life partners.
Arnav: Is that why your wife is so negligent to your likes? ( his anger is always out of control)

I dont like the way he talked to his father but I am no one to interfere in them as of now.

Ayush: I should have gone. (He gets up)

Now I interrupt.

Khushi: Your tea??
Ayush: Some other time. Bye Maa.

He hugs Daadi and then hurriedly walks to the door. As always I totally disliked how Arnav behaved with his father.
Daadi: Arnav.. what is all this? Have some curtousy towards your family members.
Arnav: They are not my family.
Daadi: This wont work Arnav. Blood ties are hard to be disconnected from.
Arnav: No need for lectures again Daadi. My head is already aching badly. ( he looks at me finally).. Get Aspirin. ( he leaves)

Me and Daadi see each other with complete dissatisfaction.

****************

Weekend

I am been denied to attend the Party at Raizada house but I have decided to go against Arnav's wishes. He is not going to be my dictator. I am interested in meeting his family which I will, doesnt matter what mess he tries to create when I am back home. Besides even Daadi is joining me. So there is no question of being isolated amidst his own family.

Arnav wasnt home when me and Daadi started for the Party. I am little excited. Not that I love such parties, I just want to meet his family, thats all. I am trying to connect the bits and pieces of his life and background so that I can understand why he is so negative always with them and me. His bodygurads deployed specially for me and Daadi wish to escort us to the Party but I deny. And these days they also have been strictly warned by Arnav to obey my commands too.

Our car halts. I am totally nervous. I get down with Daadi who makes me familiarise with the outside view of this house. This is like a Palace for me , so huge and stylish. I could arrange a whole of an event here. We are welcome inside. There are many spectators around among the guest who keep guessing if I am Arnav Singh Raizada's wife as they had seen one picture of ours during the wedding. I am thrilled when few ladies surround us and try to talk to me and Daadi.
Daadi( to those ladies): Yes she is Khushi, Arnav's wife.

These ladies keep looking at me from top to bottom, some with jealousy and few others in praise.

Daadi: She was in San Francisco working. Thus missed all the earlier Raizada event.

One of the women, Shaina, in that group questions back.
Shaina: What do you do in San Francisco?
Khushi: I am an event manager there.
Shaina: Wow.. Reputed job.. Impressive.

The ladies then look at me with little more appreciation. I am been taken by Daadi towards few other relatives who are very important to her. Looks like the media catches my glimpse and take some snaps from a distance. I hope they don't build unnecessary stories about me and him. I am totally feeling like a known personality after getting so much attention from everyone here.

*******************

Arnav Singh Raizada is very well aware of the Party going on in his house. This day has always marked the worst of him. The memories of his Mother's death has still been very sharp in his heart and that was one of the reason for his reluctance in accepting any other woman to replace his mother's place in his father's life. He still recollected that night when his father got him introduced to his second wife Amrita. Arnav had taken the whole house on head blaming his father for doing such a grave mistake. But no one really heard him that day apart from his Daadi which made him so wild on everyone that he went to the Mini bar at his home and forcibly drank half a bottle of Whiskey for the first time in his life. He was hardly a boy below 10 years that time. Daadi had scolded him and handled his throwing up too that night. But  since then he had always been an attention seeker for his family.

He was still reminiscing all those past days, when his phone started ringing. It was one of his Guard from the Farm House who was deployed to look after Khushi and Daadi. Arnav answered the call and heard what information the Guard had to provide him. His eyes turned red with anger as he disconnected the call. Khushi attending that party? Didnt he warn her not to? When is this woman going to learn to obey him? He knows what the consequences would be if she sticks to that venue alone. There are chances she will get ill-treated by his Step mother, there are chances Tanvi will remove all her anger and frustration on Khushi for become his wife instead of her. And not to forget Arushi's hot headed nature will always land up Khushi in more trouble. So what? Let her handle all of this alone if she thinks too smart of herself. He wont bother to become her prince charming and keep saving her dignity tonight.

He opened his laptop and started working on it trying to avoid thinking about his wife or the Party where she was soon going to get troubled in.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 15

I am little elated to meet Arnav's father again. He is the first person to acknowlegde me as part of their family after all.

Ayush: Welcome Khushi. Happy to see you here. Come.
Khushi: Happy Anniversary ( I wish him extending my arm)
Ayush :Thank you. A hug would have been great start. ( he recommends)

I smile and give my father in law a Side hug. Thats when we are been interrupted by a female voice.

"Ayush?", Amrita calls him.

Ayush: Amrtia, come here. Meet Arnav's wife. Khushi Singh Raizada.

That full name have always given me some goosebumps because I am still unsure if this tag is going to remain life long with me.

Ayush: And Khushi, she is Amrita, my wife.

Mrs Amrita scans me top to bottom sarcastically and then grins. I am little nervous. I can see her expression and say that she doesnt like me. But I should not be bothered by it. I am here to wish them for their anniversary.

Khushi: Happy Wedding Anniversary (I hand the Bouquet to her)

She looks at me with the same expressions and then turns to her husband.

Amrita: We have other guests to attend to. Come.

I feel bad that she is ignoring me to this extent.
Ayush: Amrita.. They all can wait. And she is not some common guest for us. She is my Son's wife. She just wished you, and I think you should be little considerate.
Amrita (little angrily): She snatched Tanvi's place in this house, isnt that an enough reason for me to avoid her?
Ayush: She didnt snatch. Arnav himself gave her that place in his life. And it's been months now that they married, we should be forgetting the past and moving on, I feel.
Amrita: You forgive your son and her. I wont.  (she stares at me again).. Excuse me

She walks away. I keep looking at her retreating back while Arnav's father touches my arm.

Ayush: Dont take her words to heart. She takes time in accepting facts.
Khushi: I understand.
Ayush: Where is my mother?
Khushi: She is speaking to her old friends there. ( I point out at the direction)
Ayush: Okay. You come with me. Let me introduce you to some of my Friends.

I dont deny. I feel good that at least someone from this family wants to accept me. I meet my father in law's friends. They too are very excited to talk to me. I am already feeling on top of the world when they praise my profession. Event Organising is not an easy task and I am already awarded once for being one of the best where I worked in San Fransisco. Few of his friends ask me if I would be continuing and I proudly agree to that. Arnav's father is little confused with that response. Probably he is thinking how can Arnav allow me to work again going back to San Fransisco. But I cannot clear his doubt now, as I am also still looking for that answer from his Son.

I feel thirsty, hence I excuse from that group to get some water. I am about to pick a Glass when someone else picks the same even though there are other glasses too in that tray. I look at that woman. She is of my age approximately.

"I picked it first", she says in an angry tone.

I leave my hand from the glass.

Khushi: Okay.

She chuckles.

"How easily you left this. Why dont you leave Arnav too?" she asks me.

I am surprised. Who is she to ask me that.

Khushi: What do you mean?

She sighs and gulps the water first.

"I am Tanvi"

Her introduction is very straight and precise.  I could analyse now why she said so. But I am not going to keep giving explanations to everyone why Arnav chose me over her.

Khushi: Why dont you ask him why he chose me over you?
Tanvi: I did. And you know what he replied?

I gulp. I dont know what that reply would be.

Tanvi: Physical attraction !! Thats all he has for you.

I am surprised to hear that. Was it true? Can Arnav say that? May be. Thats why Arnav has shown all the attempts to get close to me everytime. It was just an attraction. It always was and will be.!!

Khushi: Why should I believe you? ( I know he might have said so, but I dont show it to her)
Tanvi: Dont believe me, I would never insist. But remember one thing. A day would come when his attraction for you will end and that day, I will snatch him from you forever.

I am little pissed off by this woman's audacity in warning me about snatching my husband.

Khushi: Dont be in false hopes. And dont take marriage vows to be so weakly.

She is about to step towards me in anger when Daadi comes between her and me,

Daadi: Khushi? Where were you ? The cake cutting ceremony is starting. Ayush is calling you. Chalo.

I give a cold stare to Tanvi who keeps fuming and then I leave with Daadi to the Center Stage.

******************

The party did go well, at least apart from my little conversation with Amrita Raizada and Tanvi. But this was expected. I knew they would not treat me good. So what? I dont need their love if they cant offer me respect. Me and Daadi reach back home at 12:30am. I expect Arnav to know where I had been so when I see him sitting on the Couch in the living room, watching at us, I am not surprised.

Daadi: Arnav? You didnt go to sleep yet?

He doesnt answer but definitely gets up from the bed and stands between me and the stairs.

Daadi: Everything went well at the Party. All the relatives were happy to meet Khushi.

He is still looking in my eyes angrily, not answering anything to Daadi's statements.

Daadi: Dont be angry on her now. I was the one who insisted.

Now that kicks his anger in tha talready boiling brain.

Arnav: Leave us alone Daadi ( he commands)

Daadi gulps and looks at me, I gesture her to do as said. She nods and leaves for her room. Once she is gone, I again meet his eyes and then try to leave from his side. I havnt even crossed one step that he holds my arm and drags me back in the original place, BEFORE HIM..! CLOSE TO HIM.

Arnav: Didnt I ask you not to attend that Party?
Khushi : What is your problem?
Arnav: (clenching his jaw): YOU are my Problem and .. its solution too.
Khushi: Dont talk in codes. If you were afraid that Tanvi will tell me what you told her about why you married me, then dont worry. It has not affected me at all. I know you are only Attracted to me. Nothing beyond that which coaxed you to marry me.

He keeps his words zipped for some seconds and then asks.

Arnav: I am attracted to many other better women than you. I didnt marry them!! So dont fly. !!

His replies never fail to amaze me.

Arnav: There is a lot more reason beyond that which I dont want to tell you.
Khushi: WHY? ( my tone is changing)
Arnav: You arent worth it.
Khushi: Thats not the answer I am looking for. I am definately having that much WORTH for a man like Arnav Singh Raizada to marry me.

He is little surprised to hear my response.

Khushi: Bolo..!! Jawab do. !! (Say.. Say something now) (I insist)

He clutches my shoulders, drawing me closer. I am little afraid now seeing the level of rage in his eyes.

Arnav: It's always you who have kept bugging for an answer from me. Now For a change, let me ask you something Khushi.. ( he pulls me MORE Closer).. Is there something you want to share with me ?? Something I should have known before our marriage..? Something which is the base of my cold behaviour towards you.. Something which is the only reason why even after having immense attraction for you, my mind repels back from accepting you?

Those questions get the hell out of me.  I feel like  I am been made to stand in the Court hall where the opposition lawyer is blaming me for some very major sins.. !! I have no replies. And finding me all clueless and scared to respond, he smirks sarcastically. His hold on me is still worse and painful for both of us.

Arnav: Think about it wisely. Instead of analysing why I married you, sit somewhere alone for sometime and count your past sins. May be you will find your responses which you are expecting to come from me.

He pushes me away with a force and walks back to the Master bedroom leaving me totally stunned by his talks.

******************

It had been an hour since Arnav had returned back to his room after the heated discussion with Khushi. Why didnt she returned back to the room yet? He shut his laptop screen which he was using until now as an excuse to be awake and then walked out of the room. This woman always have kept him on his toes since the time she returned back from San Fransisco. Sometimes he felt, she was better there. He searched her in the Living room but she was not around. Was she with Daadi? May be sleeping in the Guest room with her? How many times he has told her to start using his bedroom and not the Guest room? When will she understand? He strode across the lobby towards the Guest room but suddenly stopped. He could hear rain pouring outside and he wont forget how much Khushi Gupta loves to get drench in the rain. Yes, he knew that from the very beginning, at first through his Daadi and later through "THOSE PICTURES" .He fisted his fingers to avoid thinking about anything else apart from finding her and getting her back to his Bedroom.

She was on the Terrace probably. He turned around and took hurried steps to the Terrace. He slightly pushed the door open. The rain was still pouring heavily. It took him some while to scan in the dark and find where Khushi was. Finally he saw her sitting at one corner, all drenched, legs folded and her chin resting on her knees. He became all the more angry. He had asked her to sit alone and think for sometime if she was hiding anything from him, not to get soaked in rain water on the Terrace. Without bothering much over his demands from her at the moment and ignoring the fact that he too would get wet too if entered, he came to her and caught her shoulders.

Arnav: Get inside. ( he screamed)

Khushi didnt obey his orders which made him more irritated. Without his permission, he picked Khushi in arms, she was already shiverring enough to struggle and set herself free. He walked back inside towards their bedroom. Khushi kept gazing at his face.. The same cold expressions which he always keeps showing her. But if he was really so cold towards her from the beginning,  why this concern of saving her from falling sick in the rain?

*****************

Arnav got me back in the bedroom , I was still in his arms. He put he down inside the bathroom and went to the closet. He picked some night dress of mine and then forcefully made me hold it.

Arnav: Get changed. ( his eyes clearly stated how much he disliked my idea of almost punishing myself in that rain)

I keep looking at him, probably to feel the intensity of frustration and pain he has cultivated all this while because he thinks "I am hiding something from him". But is that true? DO I really have something so major in the past which he should know? Or is it that he has been fed by someone in that manner, that my silliest past has become his serious present concern?

He sees me not reacting to any of his orders. This makes him all the more frustrated. He gets inside the bathroom and tries to take off that Dupatta from my neck, thats when I hold his hand.

Khushi: I will do it.
Arnav: YOU BETTER!! ( he warns me, almost threatens me with his look and then leaves the bathroom , closing the door behind him)


_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 16

I come out of the bathroom wiping my hair. He is sleeping on the Bed, at least his eyes are closed and his one arm over his face, covering his eyes. I dont know if I should clarify anything with him at this moment. His heart and mind is poisoned for me. This hatred will only erase off once he starts asking me direct questions and gets my explanation to it rather than twisting his words and making me all the more confused. I climb back on the couch and close my eyes. I just hope this sleep helps me gain enough energy and strength to face him the next day.

*************


The next morning I wake up after hearing the loud sound of the door getting banged. I quickly scan the room to analyse what was happening. Arnav was on not bed, he had left probably. The time was 08:30 am. He must not have gone far, I get up and open the door, following him while rubbing my eyes. He seems to be on call while heading downstairs.

Arnav: (on call): Arushi dont do that again. You cant slap your classmate like that. There are some ethics you should follow in school. Now calm down and be there, I will pick you for school today and talk to your Principal. What's that boy's name whom you slapped? (he pauses and then almost fumes in anger).. ANSHUMAN? You mean Anshuman Jha?? You slapped him? Damn!!

He disconnected the call and then roughly fisted his hair taking a deep breathe. I had heard the whole conversation. He never wanted me to get involved in any talks related to his family, thats why he chose to walk out of the room as I was still sleeping in there. But did Arushi really slap a boy?

Arnav makes a quick call to someone else now.

Arnav: Aman.. Where is AJ?? ( he pauses).. you sure she has gone to London? Okay Arushi slapped her Son Anshuman. (He pauses).. I know dammit. Dont tell me what horrible mistake she did. Now listen carefully. If AJ calls, just tell her I will sort this out. Okay?

He disconnected that call too. I am worried seeing his tension level. Why was he making this a serious issue? I know slapping someone was not good but so what? Kids do this mistake at this age. And who was AJ? Must be a very close person to Arnav, looking at the way he was worried for attending her next calls.

He turns around, sees me and then walks away. I follow him again.

Khushi: I heard everything..

He stops and looks at me with anger.

Arnav: Dont give ears to my matters. I will handle it.
Khushi: I am sure you will but I just want to tell you that..

He advances towards me on the stairs making me hit the wall behind. He keeps his hands on either sides of mine not letting me move. His eyes dark with rage again.

Arnav: STAY AWAY from my matters Khushi.. Its the last time I am warning you.

I am angered too.

Khushi: Why? I am your wife. I have the rights to know whats bothering you.
Arnav: You are playing with this term "WIFE" very conveniently. Dont do that. And a person who is herself so secretive about her past, doesnt get the rights to poke in my life either.

He again has pricked my wrong nerve.

Khushi: PAST? What past? I have no past.. !!

He looks agitated at me for that statement.

Arnav: I am in no mood to hear your Lies for now. But if you still wish to argue on this, then wait for tonight until I sort Arushi's matters. We shall talk over it. And believe me Khushi, you will repent for even wanting to discuss this.!!

He was so much devoid of emotions while talking to me. HE showed as if he didnt care who I am, what importance I had in his life. As if he was talking to some common woman who is worthless in his eyes. He leaves me there and rushes in the bedroom again to get ready.

****************

Arnav picked Arushi from Raizada house and was now driving her to school.

Arnav: Still Arushi.. Why did you slap?
Arushi: He was misbehaving with my best friend. What was I supposed to do?
Arnav: (sighed deeply): Still.. You shouldnt have poked your nose between them.. ( he kept turning the steering wheel of his car)
Arushi: (angrily): okay.. Tell me one thing Bro.. What if someone was misbehaving with your wife? Would you still respect your decision of not interferring?

Arnav applied the brakes very roughly, almost stopping the Vehicle with a Jerk at the corner of the road.

Arnav: Dont you dare say that again!! ( he warned her)
Arushi: See? when you cant handle that to happen, I too cant tolerate someone misbehaving with my friend. And Anshuman has always been like that. Flirt .. Jerk. !!( she raised her tone)

Arnav tried to calm his anger down. .May be Arushi was right.. But Anshuman was AJ's son. This slap shouldnt affect his tie up with AJ ever. He started driving again..

Arushi : By the way, mom insulted your wife last night. I saw that from far but I liked one thing about your wife. She was calm and normal. She didnt get into any argument.

Arnav was cold.

Arushi: I suppose that "Argument Quota" your wife has kept only for you. ( she chuckled)
Arnav ( looking with frustration at her): Dont talk like a grandmother. You are still very young to know on what topics we ARGUE!!
Arushi: I know!! (She stated confidently)
Arnav was little perplexed.. She knew? What?
Arushi: She doesnt let you get close!!
Arnav gritted his teeth.
Arnav: Thats a lie.
Arushi: Dont fool me Bro. I can see that. I am 15 now. I know all these things..
Arnav: Shut up and zip your lips for sometime Arushi. Let me think what to do with Anshuman at school.
Arushi: Hit him please.. I hate him.
Arnav gave her a very angered glare again.

Arushi: Okay.. Sorry.. I wont talk again on this.

She placed a finger on her lips and allowed her brother to drive cool

****************

I am with Daadi making breakfast. Arnav has gone away like he had told Arushi to pick her up. He didnt even bother to eat or even Drink a Juice.

Daadi: He has always been so serious on Arushi's matters right from her childhood. I am not surprised that he skipped his Breakfast and medicines for that today.
Khushi: Who is AJ Daadi?
Daadi: AJ? Ohh you mean Anjali Jha?

This name is still new to me.

Daadi: She is Arnav's Business Partner. A very sharp woman. I have also met her only few times in some parties.

Now I understand why Arnav was so worried that Arushi slapped her son Anshuman. Their Partnership will be affected if this extends.

Daadi: Why did you ask that?
Khushi: Seems Arushi has slapped her son Anshuman yesterday, thats why Arnav left hurriedly to sort it out.
Daadi: Thats bad. Kids do such mistakes and their family has to pay for it. I hope Anjali doesnt take it to heart. But knowing her nature, she might. .
Khushi: Nature?
Daadi: She is very possessive of her loved ones, means her husband and her Son. I have felt that in her talks many times.

I nod. Obviously any woman would be possessive for her husband and kid.

Khushi: Anyways.. I am sure your Grandson will handle the matter well.
Daadi: Hmm. So be it. Who else will sort it otherwise? Ayush doesnt pay attention to such deeds from Arushi and Amrita is all into herself. She doesnt get time from her makeup and kitty parties.

I feel bad for Arushi sometimes. Even after having parents she might be feeling as an orphan. Good that Arnav is there to look after her. Poor soul. This is one thing that I like in Arnav. He supports his baby sister and looks like he also points her out if she is wrong. At least morning's phone conversation proved that.

*******************

Knowledge is power and Arnav Singh Raizada had gained enough informed of Anshuman through his sources, before he reached the school.  A rich spoilt 16 year old brat. He could use Anshuman's earlier nuisance also to his advantage if the Principal is not ready to accept that it was not Arushi's fault to slap Anshuman. Arushi got down the car proudly. Arnav and Arushi both strode to the Principal's cabin.

Principal: Hello Mr Raizada. Nice seeing you again, but of course not by its reason.
Arnav: Arushi is not at fault.
Principal: We cant judge it like this. I have called Anjali Jha too. But she is in London and needs some time to come back, she said. Once she is here we will decide and then taake action accordingly.

Arnav was unhappy and little tensed too.

Arnav: We could have sorted that out with Anjali Jha.She is my Business partner and she rarely gets time to have such personal vaccations.
Principal: But she is Anshuman's mother. She had to be informed as per our school rules.
Arnav: hmm.. So Where is Anshuman, can I meet him?
Principal: He has not come to school today and his Nanny told me that he will come only after this matter is sorted by his mother.

Arnav fisted his fingers.. This was not as easy as he was thinking it to be.

Arnav (shook hands with the Principal): Okay We will come back when AJ is here with her Son then.
Principal : Okay I will give you a call when we schedule this. Good bye.

Arnav and Arushi came out of the Principal's cabin.

Arushi: I should go to my class. You leaving for work or home?
Arnav: ( he didnt bother to answer that ): Okay listen, I know Anshuman wont be coming to school today but if he does, just ignore him. You get that?
Arushi: Of course. You think I ever like to talk to him? And what you scared of ? I can take care of myself.
Arnav ( angrily): I can see that Arushi. Just do as I say. Now go.

She hugged him and then hurried to her classroom. Arnav kept staring at her until she entered the class. Thats when Aman's call rang on his phone. He answered while getting inside the car again.

Arnav: Yea Aman.
Aman: AJ had called. She is coming back tomorrow and she sounded furious. But she didnt ask me anything about you or Arushi.
Arnav: Okay. I will call her personally later. We will sort this out among us and not get the kids involved.
Aman: Okay.

Arnav disconnected the call. He and AJ had personal issues discussed and sorted even earlier to this, so he hoped this time also things will settle down the same way.

*****************

Arnav Singh Raizada always liked to be in control of things. Such situations like today which happened with Arushi, always made him crazy. He was still confident that AJ would treat this lightely but he had no idea what will Anshuman feed in his mother's ears. That thoughts made him drink few shots of Vodka before he returned home.

*****************

It was obvious I was waiting for Arnav's return. I had no idea what he did about Arushi's school matter. I wanted to know and that information could be received only from him. SO I was in the bedroom, reading a Novel, waiting for him to come. The door opened roughly and he walked in. His steps were not uniform which means he was drunk again. WHY? When will I ever get a chance to receive him with full senses? I close the book and get up. He sits on the edge of the bed pressing his forehead. I walk to him. When he is drunk, though I still dont feel safe, I dont fear him much too. Because I know he will have no energy to fight with me. The moment I reach him, he wraps his arms around my waist and hugs on my stomach. I freeze abnormally. My hands are still clutching the sides of my night dress unable to understand how should I react to this. He hugs my stomach tighter, rubbing his head there as if trying to find some warmth of concern in that action. I finally hold his shoulders, my fingers fiddling on the collar of his shirt to hold myself tight from falling down, he is that much pushing into me. My breathes shallow down as he realises what he just did and pulls back slowly. He meets my eyes and then leans back on the bed closing his eyes. I am still trying to explain myself what just happened.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 17

In the morning I had expected him to be as cold as ever, forgetting that he had showed the need of getting comforted by me last night. I can understand he was drunk which made him do so, and he had realised it too soon enough which is why he left the hold on me and lay on bed. But I don't expect him to forget that incident. I know he remembers. I walk inside the bedroom with his morning bed tea. I purposely dont like doing such favours on this man but this is also an excuse for me to check why he was so disturbed last night?

I see him already woken up and texting something on his phone. Though he still has messy mood, I dont fear going to him and extend the tea.

Arnav: Keep it and leave ( he barks)
Once again I see the bitterness in his tone and talks.
Khushi: Don't treat me like your maid Arnav.. I am your wife.
He keeps the phone on the bed and looks in my eyes.
Arnav: (trying to show some softness in his tone): Khushi.. I am sorting different things here. Dont push me to be good to you.
I know he is sorting Arushi's matter.

Khushi: I can help you if this is related to Arushi.
I don't have any selfish motive in offering my help to him. But he takes it the other way.

Arnav: Dont get unnecessarily into this.
Khushi: Arushi is my husband's sister. I am equally concerned. 

Now this messes up with his mood. He gets down the bed and comes to me. I step behind realising the depth of anger in his expressions.

Arnav: Have you promised yourself not to obey me at all?? When I tell you not to get into some matter, just follow it. I am tackling things here. Let me do that with some peace of mind.
Khushi: This is your problem. You always think with anger. Such matters should be sorted calmly.
Arnav keeps looking at my face. I will have to convince him more so that he takes my help or else it wont work.

Khushi: It is not as worse as you making it. Just speak to that boys parents and tell them that such things happen at young age. Ask for forgiveness if required. And if you cant do it, let me do. I will speak to his parents and..

The moment I utter this, he pins me to the wall behind.

Arnav: Dont even think of it.. I dont want you to even cross their paths forget talking to them personally.
His grip tightened on my arms. I practically yelled to come out of his hold. He left me and also the room. I dont understand what wrong did I say that he got so much angry on me? I was just trying to help.

***************

Some time Later

Daadi: Dont poke your nose in his matters Khushi. That's the best advice I have for you.
Khushi: Daadi its not going to work this way. I should at least know what is pricking him so much?
Daadi: AJ has always been in his top priority in terms of doing Business. He wont ever think of upsetting her.

I feel weird.

Khushi: Why?? Only because she is his business partner?
Daadi looked in my eyes smiling.
Daadi: Now don't start linking them in any other way. She has money and lot of political influence  because her father is a politician. I have heard he has helped Arnav gaining many clients in India. You know how business minded Arnav is. He can tolerate anything but nothing should hamper his profession.

I really dont know if this is a good news or bad for me. I understand work is important for him but that doesn't mean he has to please his business partner everytime even when she or her family members are going wrong somewhere.

I am still analysing the situation while sipping my morning coffee with Daadi when the phone rings. Its Sheetal's call. I don't hesitate to attend it before Daadi as she knew once I had hired a lawyer to get Divorce from Arnav.

Khushi: Hello..
Sheetal: Hi Khushi. How you doing?
Khushi: Not too bad. You??
Sheetal: Quite Busy these days but I have called you for something special. Its my birthday tomorrow. And I am inviting you.
Khushi: Ohh that's great. I will check with Daadi if I can attend it.
Sheetal: Daadi?? Not your husband?
Khushi: He is busy in some major stuff. I dont think he will even be interested to know I have a lawyer friend whose birthday party I want to attend.

Sheetal chuckled.

Sheetal: I like to see you so strong Khushi. Be like this forever. And I will text you the venue details. Okay? Please come. I have very few friends and I am not calling any of my clients.
Khushi: I will.

I drop the call and then inform Daadi the same .

Daadi: You don't need to ask me Khushi. But I would still say inform Arnav once. Just to avoid any more fights between you two. You know what I mean.

Daadi is right. I should inform Arnav at least if not bothering for his permission. But  I will tell him not so early. May be tomorrow, before leaving for the party.

Khushi: You know Daadi I have lost the touch of even attending any social function like this. I mean where family is not involved. This was a part of my life in San Francisco though.

I have to admit that.

Daadi (smiles): Arnav also is no less in throwing unnecessary parties.
Khushi: He overspends. In fact he does over required in everything. ( I comment )

Suddenly I feel someone holding my hand from behind and leaning against my shoulder.. It's Arnav. He raises my arm and sips my coffee.

Arnav ( leaving my hand): It's got cold.

He sits next to me on couch and once again starts texting. I am thrilled when he so casually sipped coffee from my mug like that. I had folded my legs on the couch but now one of my leg touches his thigh as he is sitting quite close to me. I feel uncomfortable and hence try keeping my legs down but he holds it that same instance and looks in my eyes.

Arnav: Relax!!

In the process, he caresses the bone of my ankle gently and my eye's widden. Daadi see's that and tries to avoid looking at us. She raises the newspaper to her face level and keeps reading. He keeps his eyes glued on my ankle and I am already feeling the warmth rising till my stomach. I have no idea why he is doing this to me? I immediately shrug his hand off my leg and keep my legs down. He grins.

Khushi: Daadi I forgot.. I have to go to Parlour today. It's been long since I have been there. Will you join me Daadi?
Daadi: ( keeping the newspaper aside): What will I do there? You go.
Arnav : I will drop you. Go get ready.

His sudden interest in dropping me to Parlour raises a doubt in my tiny brains.

Khushi: I can take the other car.
Arnav: (looking sternly at me): I said I AM DROPPING YOU.

I am quiet. He gets up and leaves back to the drawing room, its kind of a Office cabin for him where he can work without any disturbance.

Daadi: Dont deny him. Go.. He doesnt show his interest always.

I nod and stride towards the bedroom to get ready.

********************

We are in the car, he is driving it and I am silently observing the road. He suddenly holds my fingers while his other hand still on the Wheel taking a Left turn. I see at him but his eyes are on the road. Such gestures are common between a lovey dovey couple not for us. I struggle to set my hand free. He doesnt bother to leave. I realise he is not dropping me to the nearby Parlour either.

Khushi: Where are you taking me?

He doesnt speak a word.  He kept driving but the way I was struggling to leave my hand made him finally speak.

Arnav: I am not kidnapping you Khushi. Stay calm.

He is still holding my hand and his fingers have almost entwined in mine by now. I dont understand what he intends by showing such gestures to me.

Khushi: Leave my hand then. I wont jump from the car if that's what you fear of.

My statements almost make him grin again. He slowers the speed but his hand hold is still undisturbed. Soon I realise he is taking me to my home.. My Nani's home. There is a lot happening in my mind as he parks the car in the small lane of Laxmi Nagar which had been my nest during childhood. This is where I grew up. He removes the car keys and gets down. I am still in the car trying to believe he really got me here. He opens my side car door. I finally leave the car. Arnav already has two of his men waiting for us. They give him the keys of the house and go away. This house really looks better than what I left it. The last time I had been here was during Nani's final death rituals. I am so touched being a part of this place again. He holds my hand and drags me gently to the door. There are people who know me here. Few school friends who obviously are married and staying in different places now. I dont have time to even check around if I find any known face. He opens the door and we step inside the house. The walls are colored.. The old furniture still exists but then its been refurbished. Everything is the same yet different.. I leave his hand and keep walking ahead. He obviously might not have any interest in admiring this place, the way I do.

THis whole house has memories at every corner. I never thought Arnav would renovate it so nicely. Why did he take all these efforts? Why didnt he tell me earlier that the renovation is complete? I would have rushed to see this place. Did he wanted to surprise me? Is he even that material ? I dont think so. But what he did today was just making my heart melt for him. I open the door of Nani's room and my eyes become moist. Her photo is hung on the center wall. I keep walking to the photo. Doesnt look like she is no more .I feel her presence everywhere in this house. I stand in front of it and my tears start rolling. I have no control on them. I touch the frame ..

Khushi: I miss you Nani.. Wish.. I wish you could come back to me.

I have no idea Arnav is standing in the same room now, behind me. I am still weeping. He places his arm on my shoulder. I am so weak and emotional right now that I instantly turn around and hug him tight, weeping over his chest. I dont care what he thinks about that gesture of mine. I wanted some support . .I hug him as tight as I could and finally I feel his arms on my lower back taking me into him, the same way my beloved people would if they had seen me in this state. He caresses my hair.. My tears have made an inch of his shirt wet. I cry till I feel better. He should have been the one whom I would share my pain with when Nani passed away. But this man was signing some Business deals in other countries that time. But today, He was doing his best today to give me that same strength and support which he failed earlier. Such moments might have been rare for both of us that even after having such a bitter relationship I have still managed to ask some comfort from him.

I compose myself and my arms slowly start pulling off from that hug. He looks at me. I wipe off my tears and take a deep breathe.

Khushi: Thank you. For getting me here.

He nods but doesnt utter anything.

Khushi: You were busy in Arushi's matter right? How did you afford to get so much time for me today?
Arnav: That will be sorted. And you know Khushi, main koi bhi cheez bina wajah nahi karta( And you know Khushi.. I dont do anything without a reason)

WHat is that suppose to mean?

Arnav: ( moving my hair strand behind the ear): I touch people's painful nerve to get them do what I want. Your's was the easiest one.

I know what he is talking about. I dont want to give air to it though. I push him away and try to look around the other room's renovations.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 18

Arnav  looks at his watch. I dont give much eyes on him as I am more excited to see how the same old house had suddenly turned into a better place to live in. Not that I ever complained about this ever, but Arnav really had taken some initiatives to repair it, though his intentions were purely selfish. He gets some call on his mobile.

"Aman, I told you not to call me till afternoon", he barked over the call and then heard what Aman had to say. "Okay. I will see AJ in an hour. "

So he was going to meet AJ.. It's better if he sorts Arushi's matter quickly. I dont want him to ponder over it every day and spoil his mood. But will this solve Arushi's behaviour problems forever? She has attitude like her brother which is not so good at this age. Suddenly I feel his presence behind me. I quickly turn. He gives me his trademark smirk and pins me to the Kitchen slab behind.

Arnav: So? What am I getting for renovating this house?
I shiver as his fingers trace along from my wrists to my shoulders.. But his eyes are fixed on me though..  I wriggle but he holds me firmly.
Khushi: I have nothing to offer. And I never asked you to do this for me. It was your free will. So do not expect anything from me. ( I make myself clear to him)

His phone buzzes again and he seems to be in a hurry to leave now.

Arnav: I have to leave.. But.. Humaari baatein abhi khatam nahi hui.. Remember that..!!

I swallowed as he looked in my eyes intensely for few more seconds and then turned to leave. I took a few minutes to register what he meant. What did he want from me? Was it that same old thing? Consummation of their marriage or Heir? She followed him. Aman was already out of the house in another car.

Aman: Hello Khushi Maam..
I just pass him a quick smile and then look at Arnav.
Arnav: (to Aman): Drop Khushi wherever she has to go and then ask M
Aman: Sure.

Arnav got inside his car and drove away handing me to Aman Mathur, the second person whom I hate after Arnav.

Aman: This way.. ( he opened the car door for me and I get in)

The two guards who had been waiting here since the time we had arrived locked the doors of my Nani's house. Aman takes the keys from them and get inside the car I am already sitting in, to drive.

******************

Arnav Singh Raizada decided to meet AJ at her home. He cannot discuss all this at Office. It will only allow more unwanted people to give ear their talks and create more gossips. He entered the living room where AJ, Anjali Jha was sitting on Couch watching some Video game with her 16 year old Son Anshuman Jha..The moment Anshuman saw Arnav, he looked at his mother whose expressions changed just like his.

Arnav: How was your trip?

Anjali gestured her Son to leave the room.

Anshuman: I will stay. This is my matter (he rudely replied to his mother)
Anjali: (angrily): LEAVE!! I will call you if needed.

Arnav Singh Raizada clearly sensed the seriousness of this matter. Anshuman gave a cold stare to Arnav and then angrily left the room. Anjali: ( gritting her teeth): Why didnt you get Arushi with you ?
Arnav ( raising his eyebrow): Why would I ? We are going to sort this between us. Lets not involve the kids again.
Anjali: The matter is not as simple as you think Arnav. Anshuman is MY Son ( she angrily replied)
Arnav ( still keeping his tone low): And Arushi MY Sister. ( he stressed the word "My" just like she did )

Anjali pressed her eyes to control her anger at the moment.

Arnav: Look AJ.. They are Kids.. Anshuman was hurting her friend.. She had to react that way..
Anjali: Only because she is your sister, I wont foget this incident Arnav. Get her here, she should say Sorry to Anshuman before me.

Arnav fisted his fingers.. Somehow he would never let this happen. He had never apolozised to anyone in his life, for any of his deed, so would Arushi..

Arnav: I am leaving.. I take this matter as closed..

Anjali fumed all the more. She came a step forward towards him.

Anjali: I have dealt with every matter between us very coolly. But this time my Son is involved. We have good tie ups Arnav, I dont want these kids to harm it. Just let Arushi apolozise and then its over. Thats all you have to do.

Arnav also stepped towards her once.
Arnav: If this is about "APOLOGY" then there is someone in this house who should Apolozise to me first.

AJ knew whom he was talking about. Her tone became rough again.

Anjali: ARNAV.. !! ( she warned him as if to take his words again)
Arnav: When you cant let that happen, dont expect it from Arushi's end either.
ANjali: BOTH the matters are different Arnav. Dont link them..
Arnav: They might be different I agree. But I am no longer at the weaker end. I am already handling the first matter in my way and the second, lets dissolve it right here without extending unnecessarily. It will be good for both of us personally and professionally AJ..

Anjali Jha had never liked to be on the weaker side. She had know Arnav Singh Raizada and his capabilities from years. But never ever she thought he would challenge her to accept defeat.

Arnav's another Manager meanwhile got inside the house with some 4 to 5 packed gifts. Anjali was little surprised what they were and for whom?

Arnav: These are for Anshuman.. I heard you were looking for some best Video games and Xbox dvds for him, I have got them imported from US. He will be happy.

This was the usual way Arnav Singh Raizada would impress people with. Gifting them their prefect needs. He read their minds so easily, this is what she had admired in him always. At times she could correlate herself with him in terms of handling his Personal and professional life. The manager kept the gifts on the side table and left out.

Arnav: ( looking at his watch again): Time to go.. I will ask Aman to send you the meeting agenda for tomorrow. We have a lot to discuss the budgeting of our new Fashion Show.. See you tomorrow then..

Anjali took a deep breath. She didn't even take her eyes off this man during the entire situation he just created here which was so not expected by her. She wanted to lead this conversation but Arnav gave her no chance. She was a fool to think he will get his baby sister to apologize. He was too proud to let that happen. The servants quickly came out with some snacks and Juices for him, like they always did when he came here for meeting AJ at other times.. 

Arnav: You drink this Juice AJ.. You got to cool down your anger at the moment and think beyond that. Bye..

He passed her a very formal hug. She shut her eyes in despair but hugged him back.

Arnav (pulling back from the hug): See you tomorrow then.. I have a date tonight.. Need to plan for that..

Anjali's eyes widened.

Anjali: Khushi ke saath yeah ..
Arnav ( interrupted): Khushi Singh Raizada ..
Anjali: You think renovating her old house will get her convinced about you ?? You are playing with fire Arnav.. You will be the one to get hurt if she pushes you away again.. I will be disheartened to see that for sure. I don't want my Business Partner to get shattered and pay less attention on his work because of that..

Arnav keeps staring at her.

Anjali: By the way since when did you start taking so much interest in her ? Is it only a show off?? I am sure you aren't really head over heels on her.. You cant fall for a woman like her Arnav.. You have a better choice..

Arnav: ( smirked ): Done ?? I got to go.. Bye..

He would have given an answer to AJ if he himself knew why was he going behind Khushi to this extent even after repenting on this marriage with her. He drove back his car from AJ's house to his office to finish some of his meets quickly so that he can return home soon and continue his unfinished conversation with Khushi.

****************

Khushi came back from the Saloon. Aman had informed Mohan Driver to pick her up as per Arnav's commands. She had done a hair cut too and hence looked little different.. When she returned back home, she saw Daadi ready to leave somewhere.

Khushi: Daadi?? Where are you going?
Daadi: For a satsang. I have always waited for this to happen in our city. And luckily that spiritual group have organized a small Satsang night today. I cannot hold myself anymore.
Khushi: Ohh.. Thats good Daadi. So you alone? Do you want me to join you there?
Daadi chuckled.
Daadi: No no.. I have my old group of friends who are going to join me there. You stay here and look after the house and Arnav..

That little idea of taking care of Arnav all alone made Khushi all dizzy. She cant stand that man if he keeps irritating her by his sudden closeness..

Khushi: When are you coming back?
Daadi: Tomorrow morning .. I am used to this.. Dont worry about me.. Bye..

She kissed Khushi's forehead and then asked Mohan again to drive her to the Satsang Hall.

***************

Aman Mathur knocked the cabin door of Arnav and entered inside..

Aman: You paid some Spiritual practionors  to organize a Satsang in the city??

Arnav kept typing on his laptop..
Arnav: Not from your pocket Aman.. Why are you bothered..??
Aman: Since when did you drift your attention from women to Saints??

Arnav took a deep breath and looked at him.

Aman: Or have you decided to quit Alcohol forever and get driven in the nectar of spiritualism ?? Are you going to attend that Satsang tonight??
Arnav: Hang On.. ( he replied in a rough tone)

AMan zipped his lips.

Arnav: That Satsang is for Daadi. To keep her out tonight..
Aman was little worried now. What was that supposed to mean?
Arnav: To spend some time with Khushi alone.. You get that??

Aman then understood the whole point but he was still unsure how much this plan would be successful for Arnav.

Aman: Okay.. Enjoy.. Should I order some yellow tulip bouquet? She likes those flowers..
Arnav smirked.
Arnav: I am not proposing her to gift her flowers Aman..
Aman: Then?? How will she end up with you the way you want her to??

Arnav shut his laptop screen and leaned back. He had all plans made for tonight. He knew what scares Khushi the most. She hates darkness and he will make use of that to trick her. Yeah that sounded wrong. But she was his wife.. He has all rights to scare her.. to calm her down then.. to show her that he was her only savior.. all this will finally end up sweet, he  could guarantee that.


_______________________________________________________________________________



Part 19

Raizada Farm House

I pick the phone call getting little surprised to know why SHeetal called up again?

"Sorry Khushi.. Slight changes in the plan.. I am celeberating my birthday tonight from 11:00." she stated.
"What tonight? But .. why this change?"
"One of my Friend cant make it for tomorrow. All these changes are only to accomodate his schedule. Anyways but I want you to come."
"Uhh.. " I am not sure if I can. "I have to check Sheetal. I mean.. Daadi is not home, gone for Satsang"
"Thats cool right? And I assure you, I wont make you stay for long. You can leave any moment you wish to. Do you want me to send my Car?" She offered genuine help to me.
"Transport is not a problem. But.. Okay.. I will come"

I decide to go despite of the fact that I knew Arnav wont agree. He wants to continue that topic of morning which we had in my Nani's house. He was acting too smart and considering me a fool, expecting me to give him something in return for renovating Nani's home. I didnt tell him to do that. It was his free will. And precisely he should have taken my permission before touching that house, it belongs to me, not him. So technically he has no right to ask anything in return.

It's 08:00 pm now and I have to reach there by 11:00. I wont be waiting beyond 1:00 am though. I know my limitations. I am not really a party girl.  I quickly leave to the bedroom to get dressed up. I have no idea what I should wear. I have some casual dresses which I had packed while coming from San Fransisco. But none of those were party material. But I have some Designer sarees here. Daadi had gifted me a few. So may be one of those will fit for the party tonight.

******************

Arnav was about to leave from the Office when Aman Mathur stepped in. He already was holding a Gift wrapped box.

Aman: ASR.. Sorry but you have something else in your schedule before you leave.

Arnav is little frustrated knowing that.

Arnav: My plans for tonight cant be altered Aman.
Aman (sighed): I know your plans with Khushi Bhabhi but..
Arnav: I didnt ask you to get any gift, what's this for? ( he pointed at the box) And besides.. dont use my money on Khushi until I ask you Aman.. ( he warned)
Aman: (little confused): But why? How does that matter? She is your wife.. Every man earns money for his family and she is your family, isnt she?
Arnav: (gritting his teeth): Done advising?

Aman sighed.

Aman: Anyways.. This is not for Khushi Bhabhi. .Its for Sheetal. AJ wants you to attend her birthday party tonight.
Arnav (scrouching his eyebrows): I have never dealt with that Advocate directly.
Aman: But we will, in future. Besides she is the one whom Khushi Bhabhi had hired to seek the Divorce.

Ohh yes,  Arnav remembered that. He was informed this through some of his sources. Khushi had been to Advocate SHeetal for help. Though she was no longer seeking that help anymore, it still worried him if Sheetal had given her any plans of actions which might help her get rid of this unwanted marriage. Why not find it out by building some rapport with that lawyer directly? He needs to fake his cool side, his good side in order to show the world that he was and is a Good husband, doesnt matter what his wife keeps telling people about him.

Arnav: Alright. .Get the driver ready. I will drop at the party for some time and then leave for home.
Aman: Good. ( he smiled) Should I inform Khushi Bhabhi about your delay?
Arnav thought for a while and then denied.
Arnav: That way I wont be able to surprise her by darkness. Leave her unaware of this fact that I will be late home.
Aman sometimes hated the wickedness of this man but he never changed his sides. He was and would always be on Arnav SIngh Raizada's side only, even if he knew he was wrong.

******************

The party had started from 10:00pm only. Though a short notice, Sheetal's friends and relatives made it Housefull even then. None of them whom she had invited missed this occassion. I entered the venue very much unaware of the major mishap awaiting to shock metonight. Also I had no clue I will be meeting my husband here. On the way, I managed to buy some flowers for Sheetal. The Green Saree she wore made me little conscious. It wasnt fully revealing but it did make me look more Sexy than usual. I managed to keep my gaze off any group of men, ignoring any sort of admiration from them. I was here only for Sheetal. Wished I had a good company to avoid people's surprising attention on me. I saw Sheetal standing in a crowd taking wishes. I joined them.

Khushi: Happy Birthday Sheetal.
Sheetal seemed delighted to see me. We hugged each other and I gave her the flowers.
Sheetal: Thanks for coming dear. And you are looking stunning in this Saree.
Khushi: (smiled): Thank you.

I speak to her for some more minutes but I dont want to book her with me for long. It's her party and she needs to give time to everyone here. Not just me.

Khushi: Okay you carry on.. I will be around.
Sheetal: But you are alone .. Be with me..
Khushi: No.. Thats really fine.
Sheetal: Okay at least meet my family. Come..

She drags me to the other group of unknown people. I meet her family. They are good people. I didnt know her father is a retired Magisterate.

Sheetal: Okay .. I have few close friends too. Come..
She took me to the other crowd and when she introduced me to this next person, I am totally amazed.

Sheetal: My Client cum Friend Viraj.

Words choke in my throat. VIRAJ?? Sheetal knows him?  Viraj is equally surprised to see me here again. I have no idea how to react. I never thought my past would again so easily end up in my present. And that too in such a stage when my future is still so uncertain in this country. I had last met him after Nani's sudden death. He was the only support to me that time in Arnav's absence. Did this click somehing in my brain finally? I remember Arnav asking me if I am hiding something from him? Is this what he pointed at that time? Is this what he wanted to know about from me? Does he know Viraj? Has he met him? Viraj who was equally disturbed by my presence, finally fakes a smile.

Sheetal: He is soon going to contest for local elections this time.

I lowered my eyes.

Viraj: Hi. ( he smiled at me)
Khushi: Hello.

I don't know why but I am not very good in playing cool at such awkward situations. Sheetal is been called for cutting the cake and this gives me a chance to leave elsewhere. As soon as Sheetal leaves Viraj stops me.

Viraj: Baat nahi karogi mujhse? (Wont you talk to me?)

I keep calm as he reaches me again.

Viraj: Why did you come back from San Francisco ? I thought you will be permanently shifting there.
Khushi: Had some unwanted businesses to settle.
Viraj: I see. I had emailed you many times, you didn't respond.

I know he had emailed but I purposely didn't reply.

Khushi: I told you Viraj. Its better we stop communicating.

We hear people clapping and I see Sheetal cutting the cake. I use this opportunity to move elsewhere. I walk much away from him. I didn't know Viraj would be here or else I would never come to this party. But all this was secondary for me. I had to check if Arnav was anywhere hinting me about Viraj. I am still walking away towards the gate to leave the party when suddenly I see Arnav Singh Raizada entering. He was talking to someone on phone but the moment he saw me before, he disconnected. We both are shocked to see each other For some reasons now I am feeling more worse than before. Within few strides Arnav reaches me and clutches my upper arm, pulling me close to him.

Arnav: What are you doing here?
I shrug his arm off because his hold was too painful.
Khushi: I was invited.
Arnav: You didn't tell me. ( he clenched his jaw)
Khushi: Did you tell ne before coming here?( I ask him with the same reluctance. Why cant I ask him that? Why always only a woman has to answer?)

He is not convinced with my statements, neither he is happy knowing I kept this invitation a secret.

Aman walks in with the bouquet which he is carrying on Arnav's behalf. He too is surprised seeing me but he walks away giving me and Arnav time to communicate. Arnav scans me gently top to bottom. I dont know if he has a problem with the Saree I am wearing. I have seen his possessiveness in that party which I attended to spy on him. He notices the goosebumps formed on my skin due to the cold outside. He pulls off his Jacket and makes me wear it. Was it because my Saree exposed my skin or did he genuinely wanted to save me from falling ill?

Arnav: Stay here. I am coming back. ( he warns me and leaves inside to meet Sheetal)

I feel uneasy. I still dont disrespect his orders. Aman joins Arnav as soon as he reaches near Sheetal. He slows down his steps seeing Viraj feeding Sheetal the cake peice. Arnav's fingers fist together. He turns sideways and sees me. That one look in my eyes even though from far turns scorching and painful. Looks like he has no more interest in this party now. He still advances towards Sheetal and gives her the flowers.

Arnav: Happy Birthday

Sheetal accepts the flowers from him,.

Sheetal: Thanks however I hadnt expected you to be here.
Arnav: Neither I expected my wife to be here.. ( he said looking at Viraj)
Viraj (sighs): Excuse me, I will see you later Sheetal.

Viraj leaves from there not wanting to get into any kind of arguments. My skin burns witnessing this scene. It gives me a clear picture of almost everything that is running in Arnav's mind from long. He knows Viraj.. He knows about us.. !! So? How am I going to wave off this storm from his heart that he has been giving air to from such a long time? Instead of allowing his mind to get more creepy about me and my past, I will confront it tonight. Enough of this mind games which me and Arnav were playing from long.

Once Viraj is gone, Arnav meets SHeetal's eyes.

Arnav: Stop giving any ideas to my wife. I am not going to set her free ever.
Sheetal (frowned): Is that why you have come here for ?To warn me that too on my birthday?

I reach there the same instant intruding their conversation from heating up.

Khushi: Sheetal.. As he is here now, we would leave. You enjoy your day.. ( I hug her again)
Sheetal: Okay. And thanks for coming at such a short notice.
Khushi: Anytime.. ( I smile and then turn around to leave)

Arnav follows me fast and very soon we are out of the Venue. None of us speak until we get to his car. Before I could get inside, he pins me to his car forcibly.

Arnav: ( angrily glaring in my eyes): Yeh karne aayi thi yahan?
I struggle under his hold but to no use.

Khushi: Yeh ? kya?
Arnav: (clenching his jaw): Dont act so innocent Khushi. I know everything about you and him..

I froze. I dont know what he means by "EVERYTHING"? Tears pool in my eyes and I whince as he pierces his fingers more into my upper arms.

Khushi: Let me explain ( I plead)

Arnav pulls me dangerously close to him now.

Arnav: Mauka diya tha tumhe explain karne ka.. Poocha tha maine ki kuch hai jo tum mujhe bataana chahti ho.. Ab woh mauka chala gaya. Now I understand why you so eager in Divorcing me asap. You want to settle down with that man again, dont you? But Main aisa hone nahi dunga.. Samjhi tum? (I had given you a chance to explain. I had asked you if you want to tell me anything about your past. But you didnt. Now you have lost that chance .Now I understand why you so eager in Divorcing me asap. You want to settle down with that man again, dont you? But I wont let that happen.. Samjhi tum?)

I am so much shocked that he revealed all this so easily to me. Somehow I wish to scream and tell him the entire truth. I might not be 100% right but I am not 100% at fault too. I am not insulting this marriage anyhow. Neither I plan to settle down with Viraj. He is my past and no matter what our paths can never meet again of that's what Arnav fears of.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 20

Very few people passed by that block of the parking lot and I was relieved that none of them was noticing how Arnav was hurting me. But suddenly out of nowhere a security guard comes to us.

"Excuse me.. ( he looks at me especially and asks with concern) Any problem Maam?"

I am very much afraid to answer him anything but Arnav doesnt like this intrudence from anyone, at this point especially. He barks at him.

"Get out.."

The guard still doesnt leave and keeps looking at me.

"Maam.. Is this man troubling you?"
"She is my Wife Dammit!! And I can treat her the way I want, now get the hell out of here" Arnav barks at him with authority.

I know the security guard is just doing his duty and he wont budge until he gets some response from me.

"I am fine.. He is my husband. Please leave us alone" I finally utter loud enough for the guard to hear. He nods and then leaves us alone. Arnav stares at me again. I finally am able to resist his hold on me. I push his arms off.

"Only because I am your wife, you cannot treat me so inhumanly in public. That only shows your bad side, not mine."
"I never cared what people think about me. ( he clutches my arm again and pulls me ). But if my wife tries to play with my reputation so openly I wont tolerate that. Viraj se milne ke bahaane dhoondna bund karo Khushi. ( Stop finding excuses to meet Viraj Khushi)"

His thoughts irk me.

"What do you even know about us to make such huge allegations?"
"I know enough and I bet you dont want to hear it from me for your own good."
He opened the car door and made me sit inside, though I am seated on the front seat, I deny pulling my legs in. I dont want to drive with him. He waits for few seconds and then leans down, holds my legs and pushes them inside the car, closing the door. We drive out of that place and all the way I keep thinking he was totally fed his mind against mine and Viraj' s relationship. Somewhere it is not his fault. I should have cleared about it earlier.

We reach back home and he walks inside without me. But I follow him. Daadi is at Satsang and I dont want her to return until I finish this fight between me and Arnav tonight. He pushes the bedroom door open, gets in. I get inside too.

"If you knew about Viraj, why didnt you ask me straight? Why playing mind games all these months?" I ask rudely.
He throws his tie and phone on the bed and walks to the closet. I know he wouldnt answer until he makes up his mind to discuss this topic but tonight I wont let him keep one more wrong notion about my character and sleep off. I stand next to him at the closet.

"I am talking to you Arnav. When did you know about us? Was it before marriage?"
He grits his teeth and tries to ignore me totally. I hold his hand when he closes the door of the cupboard.
"Tell me"
He gives me a flustered stare.
"Does that matter? When did I come to know about your affair?" ( he asks in a mocking tone)
"Of course it does, if you knew it before we were married, then why did you head for this marriage.?"
"I was foolish.. To marry you even after knowing that.. Got your answer? Now leave my hand" he yelled.

I am too strong to get hurt by such words from him now.

"Marrying me was a foolish decision? Then what is stopping you from freeing me now? Itni hi nafrat hai humse toh chod dijiye humme.. (If you hate me so much then leave me forever)"

He holds both my arms and draws me to him.

"What is once MINE.. stays FOREVER MINE."
"This is not the answer to my question. I want to know what made you marry me at the first place?"  I dont resist his touch now, I know he will keep drawing me close in anger even if I keep pushing him away.

He takes few seconds to realise I wont allow him walk out without replies. And probably he himself wants to reduce the burden of confrontation from his head which is why he starts blurting out the truth.

" Amrita Raizada was attempting everything to get me married to Tanvi. I didnt wished to get trapped for my entire life with a woman like her. SO when Daadi proposed me for you, her best friend's grand daughter, I didnt deny. You were the only option I had to save myself from Amrita Raizada's cruel intentions. Toh karli maine Shaadi.. ( SO I got married to you)"

Okay.. Now all this puts some sense in my mind.

"And you never intended to treat me well either?  You just wanted to get tagged as married. But never thought of taking responsibilities of a husband ever on your head? Am I right?" I ask with bitterness in my voice.
"WRONG!!" He replies back almost the next second I stop speaking. He probably is very desperate to reply this question specifically. "Had you given me the exposure to your affair with Viraj, I would have shown some decency to be genuine with you. But you never did that. Because you never actually broke up with that man, you just PAUSED that relationship for a while because Marriage was not on his cards that time. Was it? So just like some greedy woman, you trapped my Daadi's heart and got yourself married to a richer man. ( his fingers now dug deep in my skin) What Viraj couldnt give you, you penned it down from me. Brilliant.. "

I am so hurt by reading this disgusting thoughts about me.

"Chi.. You really think I am so cheap Arnav? ( I gulp tears in my throat).. Viraj chose his Political career over me that time and I allowed it because I never want a man to hold me leaving his own aspirations. I didnt pause that relationship.. I ENDED it in good terms. It was the bad phase of my life but I still lived it only to support Nani. If I would have broke down, there was no one to look after her. That is when your Daadi proposed me for your hand in marriage. I was not ready either.. WOunds of a broken heart were still fresh in my body but just like you had your reasons for marrying a stranger, even I had. I wanted to give happiness to my Nani. I knew her health was detoriating. I did this marriage only for her. And you are wrong to think I wanted your money and luxury. I would have married a beggar too if thats what Nani had asked me those days" Tears finally become uncontrollable now. They start flowing down my cheeks.

Arnav in the beginning of my confrontation seemed to be convinced but not for long. He still has some allegations for me, I am sure.

"You officially broke up? Then why were you in his arms when I was not in the country?"
"Ohh.. So this is what you hinted me the other day.. He came to know about Nani's death and came to support me. What wrong did he do? Those days I needed my husband to be here, but he was more interested in winning his business deal rather than giving condolsence to his wife for becoming an Orphan again"
"He stayed in your Nani's house that night" I find his voice becoming feeble.. As if he had a difficulty in even uttering that statement.

My tears dry. I am quiet for some time. His gaze on me worsens because of my silence.

"So thats true. ( he shuts his eyes and then leaves me with a jerk.) What will you answer to that?"

My throat aches. I want to answer..But words dont form at all for few more seconds..

"I am clean..  I never have shamed my marriage Arnav. Believe me"

He nods in denial. Probably he expected to hear a better reply than that. He steps away from me and then presses his fingers on his forehead, rubs his temple roughly.

"You never crossed the boundaries of our marriage? Okay.. Come here.. " ( he pulls me to the closet again and then opens a drawer. He tries to find something, I have no idea what? He gets an envelope and he opens it abruptly. Few photographs fall down and I am stunned to see those..) "What is all this then?" he asks with utmost anger back in his tone.

I lean down and pick a few pictures.. Thats me and Viraj..I am shocked. In one picture I am hugging Viraj.. The other one he is carrying me to the bed to place me upon it. There are many more, wherein he is sitting next to me on the bed caressing my hair. What the heck!!
I look at Arnav again. I am unable to meet his eyes though..

"So??? You still want me to believe you didnt shame our marriage?" he asks. His tone is painful.

I am speechless. I know things arent the way he was linking them to be. But how will I convince him?

"When I got these proofs against you I returned back from my trip hiring the next available private Jet. And what do I see? My wife is no more in India. SHe has fled.. No intimation about her whereabouts.. Nothing.. Which husband will still be calm and understanding towards his wife after all this? I was mad.. I would have smacked that Viraj for touching my wife like that but I didnt. This is not his fault alone I suppose!! You were equally involved. So what did I get ? A failed marriage.. A dishonest wife.. An unwanted relationship.. And of course.. Badnaami ( Defamation) !!"

My legs go weak. I crumble down on the floor and stay there looking at all those pictures coldly. He kneels down too and pulls my chin up.

"Thats the day when I decided.. I will get you back, make you stay in this torterous marriage with me forever. I wont let you win Khushi. Because you failed me.. Everyone outside shiver to even mess with my Professional life but you .. you brought a terrible shame to my personal life and I will never forgive you for that.. NEVER!! So do whatever you have in your mind, bang your head at any higher court you want, I am not going to spare you your freedom ever. You are going to stay with me until your last breathe. Got it?"

He leaves me with a force, I have no energy left to even hold myself from falling behind. There is no more anger in his eyes, its just anguish.. a pure suffering which he thinks is because of my dishonesty..!! He leaves me alone in that dark room and goes out. I scream aloud in frustration, almost tearing those pictures and throwing it away.. The floor is scattered by those horrible snaps and so is my life after this half confrontation with Arnav. I have answers to few of my questions finally. I know why he hates me so much, I can feel the intensity of his pain for marrying me.. No man can show trust after witnessing all this. But how on earth will I explain him the other side of the coin? I had no idea when Viraj managed to comfort me this way that night. I was so not in my own senses to realise all this. It had been just 2 days for Nani's death when Viraj had stayed back in my house. But that was purely only to support me. I had hugged him.. But what after that? I had fainted in his arms probably.. Thats why I dont remember any of these scenes which are depicted in the pictures.. It's impossible for Arnav to get convinced on this though. He will never trust me. Never!! I should have waited that time for Arnav to return. At least I should have cleared my past with Viraj to Arnav before our marriage. He wouldnt have made up stories like this for all the remaining months then. But when was I supposed to say this to him? Was he even available? he never wanted to meet me before the wedding. Even on wedding night he was heavily drunk. And after ngiht I gave up the thought of letting him know my past at least for some period of time. I wanted to win his heart as a wife and fulfil my responsibilties towards our marriage . But his rough attitude towards me made me run away from him. And this is what he kept developing in his heart from so long. How will I ever erase that from his mind? Our relationship never had any softeness so there is no chance for any "Trust" to be even considered at this point of time. I lean myself on the floor closing my eyes hoping that the next day I will find some way to untangle the web that me and Arnav have been coiled into.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 21

Arnav Singh Raizada drove his car speedily on the silent dark roads to get some fresh air after that heated confrontation between him and his wife Khushi.

"She wants me to believe her? Damm!!!" he gulps the alcohol from the bottle he was holding in his other hand while driving. He was not going to be convinced so easily. He believes in what he sees. THis was his trait right from childhood. Even when his father had married that Amrita, his father did try to convince him saying how Amrita will start looking after him now like his real mother did. But he never believed it. Because he had seen the greediness of Amrita for getting married to a rich man, he had seen how she avoided spending time with him only because he was not her own son, he had heard how she kept filling his father's ears against him because he wanted her husband only for herself. All this was enough for him to learn that world works that way. You are a fool if you start trusting people until they show you no signs to believe themselves. Khushi had never showed him signs of her innocency either.

He parked the car at the side of the road and got down. He was drunk but not that worse. He gulped some more alcohol and kicked the tyres of his car to remove out his frustration. Why does he always meet people who are dishonest towards him? Everyone who are not on his side can never get any sympathy from him if they are expecting so. Khushi had joined the list of his opponents a long time ago and she will continue to remain so forever.

He saw the reflection of Khushi in the glass pane of his car door, almost mocking at him and laughing hard on his condition. He got all the more raged. He threw the bottle on that glass, almost breaking it to pieces.. Arnav Singh Raizada can tolerate anything but not Unfaithfulness. So however wrong it might sound, he will make Khushi pay that price to him. She will never get her freedom. She will have to stay as his wife and that would be the most tortureous punishment of her life, he promised himself.

****************

Next Morning

I hardly got sleep after what I faced last night. My husband was blaming me for something I can never think of doing even in my dreams. I was a woman of values and I will never shame my marriage even though I had no feelings for my husband at all. But what was I supposed to do now? Run behind him to beg for forgiveness for hiding my past? Or keep finding proofs of my loyalty? I will do none. .Has he ever clarified his past with other women to me?  He might have faced a worst childhood because of his family issues but he cannot blame every woman to be a gold digger. He thinks I am behind his money? If I needed his money to survive, I would never run away from this house in the first instance. He has to change his thoughts about me which I dont see happening anytime soon, however hard I try. He wants me to be tied in this marriage and thats my punishment. I will see how long he sticks to that fact. I might be weak but I am not going to break down and accept all these torture anymore. If he thinks I am still having an affair with Viraj, let him keep thousands of men behind me to spy, one day he will get his answer and I will then see how he repents for blaming me all this time?

I wake up after a disturbed sleep and get down. I see him sleeping on the couch in the living room, a bottle of Alcohol empty beside the couch. It's so easy for men to get drowned in the intoxication of alcohol to relax their anger, what was women like her were supposed to do? That's why its said woman have more patience than man. As soon as I get down the stairs, I hear Arushi's voice from the main door calling out for Arnav. Arushi ?What is she doing here early morning? Hearing her voice no wonder Arnav wakes up too. Arushi rushes in and she looks in a good mood. She sees me and then her attention is diverted to her brother who gets up and sits on the couch and  tries his best to show he was normal.

Arushi: ASR? Why are you sleeping here? ( she gives me a blank look and then sits next to him)
Arnav: Got overdrunk last night. (his voice is feeble but enough for me and Arushi to hear.)
Arushi: And your car? What happened to your car? The glass is borken. Did you meet with an accident?

I am surprised to hear that. If he drives drinking so much, accident is prone to happen. But thankfully I see no signs of that on his body.
Arushi cups his face and wipes off the dirt from the corner of his eyes.

Arushi: Dont drink so much ASR, It's not good.
Arnav smiles at her and then opens his eyes wide to finally concentrate on his sister's presence.

Arnav: What are you doing here early morning ?
Arushi: It's a Sunday.. So I thought to spend it with you. Mom and Dad are going to Dubai for some business deal. What will I do there alone? They will return back tomorrow evening. So I came here.

I am not really sure how my day would go considering both the stubborn and arrogant Sibblings are going to be around me.

Arushi ( seeing Khushi): Can me and my brother get some breakfast please?

I nod and make my way to the kitchen. Daadi meanwhile gets down and she also meets Arushi and no wonder very happy that she is here.

*****************

We are all at the breakfast table. Arnav had cleaned himself up and looking better than what he did when he woke up. I am not meeting his eyes. Not because I am feeling guilty. I am unhappy for what he thinks about me. I serve the Pan cakes to Arushi and then I return back to my chair. Arnav is already serving in his plate. I dont need to do that thankfully. I am being normal now.

Khushi: How was your Satsang Daadi?
Daadi: Ohh it was great. I feel so light now. All my worries and tensions are like fading. That group of people really have that aura to keep eldies like us releived.

I smile and keep eating.

Daadi: What did you both do? ( she asks looking at me and then Arnav)
Before I could say anything, Arnav replied to her.
Arnav: Your bahu was partying hard with her close ones..
I clench my jaw looking at him.
Daadi: Ohh.. So you mean Sheetal's party was preponed Khushi?
Khushi: Jee Daadi.
I dont want to get into details. I eat.
Arushi: ASR.. Will you take me out for shopping? I have some basic stuff to buy.
Arnav looked at the watch.
Arnav: Uhh.. Arushi I have one important meeting today morning. Can we go in the evening?
Arushi: No. Evening I have plans to watch a movie with you.
Daadi: Take Khushi Bhabhi along . She too hardly goes out otherwise.

Arushi didnt seemed pleased neither I.

Khushi: No Daadi. I dont watch much movies. Let them go.

Arnav was silent for some seconds and then he spoke again.

Arnav: ( looking at Arushi): My wife will join us for the movie tonight.
Arushi had no clue why he included me in her entertainment plan but she didnt denied. Neither I understood what he wanted to prove exactly? Why take me when he hates me so much?
Arnav: And the shopping, we shall make it just before the movie. Is that okay?
Arushi agreed.
Arushi: But what will I do if you dont be here in the morning time? ( she sighed) I should have come in the evening then.
Arnav: So what if I am not here? Daadi and Khushi will keep you occupied.

His words are considered as final even to Arushi. She simply nods and keeps eating whereas Arnav gets up.

Arnav: You guys carry on. I will get showered and leave.

He leaves. I wait till he reaches the room and then I get up too. I dont want to make it much obvious to Daadi or Arushi that I am following him on some purpose.

Khushi: I will be back.

I hurry in the bedroom. When I reach there, I see him burning the photo's of me and Viraj by a cigaratte lighter. I had left the photos on the table last night. They were his property, he can do anything he wants. But I have some questions to ask him. He knows I am inside the room, he still keeps looking at the flame burning those photo's.

Khushi: You could have use them to put allegations on my character.

He hears me still ignores .

Khushi: Why do you want me to go out with you and Arushi? Is it only to show how good husband you are and how bad wife I am? It;s not going to make any difference Arnav. Stop troubling yourself and me. If you cant believe me, dont fake to others that you care about me either.

I have not even finished saying that he drops the ashes from his hands and clutches my arms pulling me close.

Arnav: Apni bakwas bund karo. ( Stop fussing ). I dont want to talk anything about last night.
Khushi: Theek hai. I wont talk about it. Just tell me one thing. Who provided you those pictures?

He is quiet again.

Arnav: Why? You want to sue that person for getting your truth out?
Khushi: I will do what I have to do. Tell me the name. ( My voice is as hoarse and strong as his)
Arnav: Viraj!! He gave me those pictures.

I am shocked.. VIRAJ did it? How is it possible?

Khushi: You are lieing to me. Why would Viraj do this?
Arnav: I might hide things Khushi but I never lie. You want proof's? Wait !!

He sits on the recliner and opens his email. I am really trying to digest the fact that he is saying the truth. But Viraj ? Why would he do this?  He pulls my arm and makes me sit next to him. His email is open and I can see the sender is Viraj. I see the same photos as attachments in that email. The subject line is blank and the message body has only a wide grin emoticon.

Arnav: Got your answers? ( he looks at my teary eyes and then gets up)..

I am still very shocked to believe all this in one go. I know Viraj is a very nice man, he never have hurt me so far apart from his decision of not being able to marry me as he was more into pursuing his political career. Arnav leaves for his shower keeping me wondering where was all this leading to?

****************

Arnav had gone to work and looking after Arushi was now my headache. Yes. I always felt it difficult to handle her. Just like Arnav Singh Raizada, his sister was also very unpredictable. Arushi was checking her social networking account on her iPad when I serve her the Juice.

Arushi: No Thanks
Khushi: You just asked for a Juice. Why denying now?
Arushi looks at me once and then back to her iPad.
Arushi: I changed my mind .

I fist my fingers in anger and keep the juice down on the table before her.

Khushi: I know you have a problem with me, but why taking it out on the Juice?
Arushi doesnt speak a word now. I sit next to her and then snatch her iPad. She groans in frustration.
Arushi: What are you doing? Give my iPad back.
Khushi: I will. First drink the Juice.
Arushi (flaring her nose): You are not my mother Okay? And anyways even she doesnt force me to this extent.
Khushi: Thats why you are like this. So stubborn and full of yourself.
Arushi: You called me stubborn? ( she angrily asked)
Khushi was still dealing her with all patience.
Khushi: Yes I did. JUICE ( she pointed at)
Arushi: I have my phone. I can access my account through that too if you dont give me the iPad.
Khushi: Cool. Then in that case, I will have to ring your brother and ask him to cancel the Movie and SHopping plans.
Arushi chuckled.
Arushi; I bet you he wont budge with your request. He loves me, cares for me more than for you.
Khushi: Of course he does. But didnt you see how he wanted me to join you both for the movie ? Which means he will listen to my advice sometimes.

Now that got Arushi in the thinking mode.

Arushi: Are you blackmailing me?
Khushi: Whatever you take it as, I dont mind. Drink the juice first.
Arushi frowned and picked the glass.
Arushi: (sipped some juice): Now I realise why ASR always gets angry on you. You must be blackmailing him too. Is that why he slept on the Couch last night? Is that why he still drinks so much?

I am astonished when she blames me for Arnav's bad habits.

Khushi: He is an awesome Brother ,doesnt mean he is a great husband too. (I retaliate)

"KHUSHI!!" I hear his sudden voice from behind us. Me and Arushi both get alarmed as that voice seemed angered. Arnav was back from work and he also had probably heard few of our conversations. Arushi was happy that he was back. He came to us and kept his laptop bag aside, his eyes still fixed on mine. What wrong did I say ? He really was not a Good husband for sure.

Arushi: Thank God. You are here Bhai.
Arnav: (to Arushi): Get ready we are leaving in few minutes.
Arushi : Hurraaaay.. I will change my dress.

She ran in the room upstairs and I also plan to return when he holds my arm and stops me .

Arnav : Dont reveal our relationship bitterness to Arushi.
Khushi: Why? Dont you think she is no longer a kid not to understand the coldness between us? (My pitch increases)
Arnav ( gritting his teeth and pulling me close to him): Firstly dont you ever talk to me in that tone and lastly, I dont want Arushi to feel the same dissatisfaction in every relation she has around, just like I do. You get that?

He leaves me with a force and then walks back to the bedroom. Once again he has failed my understanding towards him. Sometimes I feel he doesnt know the beauty of relationships but may be I am wrong. He has actually lived all relationships and got only bitterness out of it. Right from his father second marriage, his step mother not bothering ever about him and Daadi who was more into her spiritual world. Thats why Arushi was so dear to him. He wants to potray his sister the goodness of bondings so that probably she doesnt turn out to be as cold as him in future when she grows up. It's a good thought and though I hate him for all the distrust he is showing at me, I still respect him for this. May be thats why he has always treated me with respect before Arushi, never did he complain about me to her, thats why in the morning when Arushi came to see us suddenly, he lied to her why he was sleeping on the couch last night. Strange ... But this man does still amazes me by his out of the box actions.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 22

We are at the Shopping mall. Arushi seems busy in looking out for some dresses. I have no work here. I am standing alone doing nothing.

Arushi: ASR.. how is this?

She shows Arnav a frock which he immediately disapproves.

Arnav: It has no straps? Forget it.
Arushi: But ASR. I like it.
Arnav: Grow up first to carry such strapless dresses.
Arushi frowned at him.
Arushi: That means you will allow your wife to wear it if she insists? ( she cross questions him and I dont know why she brought me in between all of this?)

Arnav glances at me once and then he looks back at his baby sister.

Arnav: "IF SHE INSISTS" (he repeats again)

I am not bothered what he replies. I just turn my head in the other direction. He walks to me and stands close.

Arnav: Buy something.. ( he orders)

I chose not to reply anything.

Arnav: I dont give this opportunity for every woman Khushi, to shop on my money ( he stresses the last phrase "MY MONEY")
I turn around and meet his eyes.
Khushi: I dont need YOUR MONEY. I have and I can survive myself without it. And arent you forgetting something? In our last fight you told me that I married you seeing your wealth and status? You think after knowing your thoughts, I will ever want to use your money for myself? Never..! (My nose is almost flaring seeing him smirking at my sentences)
Arnav: Wohi gussa.. Wohi confidence.,.!! ( Same Anger.. Same confidence) You remind me of someone..

I dont like him teasing me at disturbed situations so I chose to leave aside. Arnav picks a Red Dress and gets it packed with the other stuff which Arushi just bought. We come out of that store. Arnav gets a call so he moves aside to talk.

Arushi : Will you hold this for me?

She passes me some 8 loaded shopping bags which we just shopped in the previous store. I hardly am able to hold them alone. I thought she would be helping me with half the bags but she didnt. I see her smirking at my condition. As if she purposely chose to use me as a servant to carry her bags along. Thats when Arnav comes there and takes a few bags from me. He looks at Arushi angrily.

Arnav: She is my wife Arushi, not your personal assistant to hold everything.

I am astonished when he supports me. Again.. he is only becoming a gentleman before his sister. As he said earlier today, he does not want to reveal the bitterness of our relationship to her.

Arushi: You know what ASR? You think a lot about her, she doesnt. SHouldnt relationships work both way?

I am totally shocked that she thinks her brother thinks a lot about my comfort. Thats blushit. !!
Arnav: Who taught you all this? Depth of Relationships and all?
Arushi shrugged her shoulders proudly.

Arushi: My experience .. ( she teased him )
Arnav: Yea.. Whatever..
Arnav wrapped his arm around Arushi's neck from the side and dragged her close. She wriggled like a cat to get loose but he didnt allow her slip from his hands. She kept gigling to set free and I could see a smile on his face. He was really a very good brother.

We then drive to the Multiplex. Looks like there is some function going on here at some plaza in the ground floor. Some inauguration probably. There were a lot of security guards.

Arushi: I hate crowds. We should have booked tickets of some other Cinema hall.
Arnav: Doesnt matter. They wont be overcrowding your seat inside. Come..

Arushi kept rushing ahead, Arnav followed her to ensure she is not out of his sight and in all this he didnt let me alone either. He had slipped his fingers in mine and I was practically walking with him in the same pace. As always this man amazes me by his actions. He hates me for my past, he has some odd doubts about my character, he abuses me verbally, he threatens me to stay with him and even then he manages to respect me before his sister or any other third person in our lives, he manages to secure me when some man lays his eyes on me in any party and even now.. in this huge crowd he doesnt let me walk alone, he is almost guarding me. I am just thinking how he would have been if he never had misconception about my relationship with Viraj? Would he be a good husband?

We enter the Multiplex, its a corner seat of 3 at the VIP couch. It's an animated action movie which can never be my choice. I am about to enter first in the row when Arnav stops me and send Arushi in.  I am confused why he did that. He gets in next and I am the last one to follow. So he is sitting in between me and his sister. Is that some kind of a safety measure? He knows his sister doesnt like me much. The movie begins and I yawn just after 10 minutes watching it. I glance at my side to see Arnav and Arushi. Arushi is very thrilled and is totally lost in the movie. Arnav is checking some messages on his phone but ensuring that the mobile screen light doesnt disturb others. I lean back and close my eyes. I could have a great nap if the sound was not Dolby. I am literally tired after that surplus shopping Arushi did. I need rest for sure. I dont know when I fall asleep. I directly wake up when the lights inside turn on again. What shocked me is that I am leaning my head against Arnav's shoulders and my palm is nicely placed on his wrist. I quickly raise my head. He stares at me. It's movie interval now. I slept on his shoulders? How could I? I withdraw my palm from him and then straighten my hair. Arushi leaves for the washroom. It's just me and him now. He gets a call again on his phone and he leaves too, I take a sigh of relief.

The movie begins again and after a terrible one more hour, we all come out.

Arushi: My phone. I forgot it at the washroom.
Arnav: Arushi? What's this? Come lets get it.  ( he turns to me).. Stay here..

I nod. They both leave and I walk a little ahead towards our car. I suddenly see Viraj there talking over phone and two of his guards walking behind him. Blood boils inside me remembering he spoiled my life by taking those pictures and sending it unnecessarily to my husband. If he hadnt done that I would still be able to let Arnav know my past in my way. He ruined everything. When I see him smiling over the phone I feel more raged. Spoiling my life, how can he be so relaxed .I stride angrily towards him. His guards see me coming but no one would even imagine what I planned to do and why. The moment I reach Viraj who is still busy talking over the phone, I slap him hard on his other cheek. His phone drops. My palm starts aching due to the intensity of that slap but I feel happy. Viraj's guards try to hold me but I push them away and raise my finger at Viraj.

Khushi: How dare you do this with me?
Viraj: (holding his cheek): Khushi? What did I do? ( he asks with irritation and surprise)
Khushi: You send those pictures of me and you to Arnav? How could you do that Viraj? I thought even after ending our relationship you care for me. I was wrong.
Viraj: Pictures? What are you talking about ?
Khushi: Dont act innocent. I am not going to fall for that.. Next time, if you play such nasty things with me or my family, I wont stop either by only a Slap. I know to cross my limits too.

With that warning I turn around and start walking away from him. In the front, some feets away I see Arnav standing and witnessing all of this. He is alone. I meet his eyes and I could sense a feeling of surprise in them. As if he never expected me to do this. I dont care. His thoughts about me or my character now doesnt affect me anymore. I walk to the car and stand there folding my arms looking elsewhere, holding up all my anger. Arnav is so much shocked that he keeps looking at me from far but doesnt step towards me. Arushi comes back with her phone.

Arushi: I found it. ( she waves her phone to Arnav who simply smiles and then they both finally get to the car)

I sit on the backseat. I dont want both of them to notice the rage still bubbling inside me. I want to be left alone. Arnav drives the car and while doing that he keeps giving me glances from the rear view mirror. I close my eyes. Tears pool in them. I slapped Viraj? Yes, I did. What else was I Supposed to do? He did a grave sin by creating a misunderstanding between me and my husband. I know I dont love Arnav. Its just a relationship we have between us, nothing else. SO what? Viraj should not have fumed it with the flames of misconception. Viraj was never like this.  I still remember how we both had met. I stayed in Lakshmi nagar, at Nani's home, and the locality had some water problems. Someone there knew Viraj who was known to be a very helpful rich man considering the political contacts he had. Viraj came to our colony and talked to the people there. I was also part of those talks. I had complained him how the water is supplied only once daily, that too for 2 hours. How can all the household work be finished in that 2 hours? Earlier the water supply was good. But since there had been huge Residency projects coming up adjacent to our Small colony, the builders had bribed the Muncipal corporation for more water supply for those Projects. And thus as usual the middle and poor class people here faced the consequences. WHen I first spoke to him, he sounded very genuine and calm. He had average looks , obviously enough for girls of my age to admire him. He was at least 3 years elder to me. I was still completing my graduation that time. I noticed he also paid my talks some extra attention. Initially I tried ignoring his eyes on me thinking it was just coincidences but later we started meeting each other more. Some times for discussing the water issues, going to the muncipal corporation, raising requests, meeting the heads and what not. I enjoyed his company. He made me laugh. For a 20 year old girl that was enough to fall for a man. We dont have much aspirations of our Prince charming at that age. We meet someone who gives us a warm look and we think its love. The same happened with me. Soon the professional meetings turned to personal ones. He always talked about helping people. I admired his sincerity in doing something for public welfare even after belonging from such a rich family. Days passed and he proposed me. Initially I hesitated considering the class difference but he defined me how he never bothers of all this. I said a "YES" to him instantly. We almost spent months dating each other, though our meets became restricted. He was indulging more into the Public welfare and had no much time to devote on me. I never complained. Thats what I have liked in him, his spirit to help others.

Soon when Nani started finding a prospective groom for me after my graduation, I told Viraj about it and he became confused. He had no plans to settle down so soon with a family. He was just starting his political career and he asked more time. I couldnt give it to him realising my Nani had very few months to survive. So we had to make a decision. And we decided to part away. He always intended to still be in touch with me but I denied. I am sure this must have lead him to do such a sin when he came to know I got married to Arnav SIngh Raizada.

I open my eyes when the car halts. We have reached home. Arushi obviously is staying with us tonight as her parents are in Singapore. She gets down and so do I . Arnav locks the car and passes the keys to Mohan, our other driver. I wipe the corner of my eyes not to let Daadi or anyone else know I was crying a while ago. Arushi stops by Daadi to tell her what all she shopped and about the movie of course. I walk straight to the bedroom showing no interest in detailing anyone.

I take a shower. Yes I badly needed one considering all that situation wherein I slapped Viraj. I dont care what he does after this. Nor I am interested to know what Arnav thinks about that slap.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 23

I am sitting at the poolside alone, my feet dipped in the cold water. I am scratching my head to understand why Viraj did this. Why he played with my image before my husband? If he was so much against my marriage, why didnt he stop it from happening? And why is he still being Two-faced ?Why cant he confront to me that he did send those pictures to Arnav? Why did he deny even knowing what I was asking him about? What does all this mean?

Arnav entered the bedroom and no wonder it was the curiosity that had dragged him here, the interest in knowing why she slapped Viraj? Why those tears in her eyes when she purposely chose the other man over him? He saw her at the poolside and he obviously came there in no time.

Arnav: Was that Slap on purpose? You knew I was behind you, watching you. !!
I took few seconds to understand he was blaming me again for falsely portraying my anger on Viraj. When will this man start seeing clearly?
Khushi: Leave me alone ..!! (I roughly replied without even turning around)
Arnav: This is my house.. my room.. and my wife.. I dont think any of this reflects I should leave from here.

His twisted talks are unwelcomed at this point of my frustration. I get up, withdrawing my feet from the pool. I know he wont leave, so its better I do. I try to walk away but he holds my hand and pulls me towards him. His hold is gentle though.

Arnav: When I talk to you Khushi, ensure you end the conversation before leaving.
Khushi: Why? Why should I answer you when I know you are not going to believe me ?( I ask in anger)
Arnav grits his teeth.
Arnav: You slapped a Politician.. Not your Ex Boyfriend. That too in public... There were CCTV camera's there.. You might be the highlight in the newspapers tomorrow. Thats my point. Have you even thought about that?

Honestly speaking.. I didnt!! I never thought any of this before Slapping Viraj because I know he deserved it.

Khushi: You should be happy that I did half of your work. I am sure you always wanted to do this yourself.

He clenched his jaw. I knew how much hatred he had for Viraj in his heart and mind. No husband can tolerate being good to his wife's past, even though its ended.

Khushi: Anyways.. When you could handle your sister's slap on Anshuman, I am sure you can deal with this too without much fuss.
He wasnt happy I was taking this so lightely.
Arnav: That I would, you dont have to tell me how to tackle mess. I have done that brilliantly all these years.
Khushi: Great. Then why waste time. Pick up your phone, call your people and give your orders. And spare me!!

Saying that I walk out of the room. I feel good that I vented out this frustration on him. I have a lot better things to cope up with than worrying about my relationships. Now that I know why Arnav hates me, now that I know what Viraj did, I dont think I have to sit remorsing for my fate. I will have to survive all of this, which I will. And the first step towards it will continuing my Job. Though going San Fransisco again looked difficult, I have some official contacts who can help me assign work here. I will deal with those and earn a little until I decide to have my future with Arnav Singh Raizada or not.

****************

Though Arnav was highly disliking the behavior of Khushi towards him, he still cannot waste time in dealing with Viraj's slap matter. He had to ensure Viraj doesnt get this raised anywhere in media. He made few quick calls and also dealt with this matter with extreme priority.

After a while he came back down only to find his little sister Arushi busy chatting on her iPad. SHe was blushing which made him a little surprised and curious to know who the other person is and what the conversation was about. He reached her and sat next to her on the couch.

Arnav: Whats going on?
She kept her iPad the other side and smiled at him.
Arushi: Just a friend.
Arnav: Didnt look like. Are you sure, you arent hiding anything from me ?
Arushi: Of course I am sure.
Arnav: I can read your eyes Aru..( he sometimes called her Aru instead of her full name)
Arushi: ASR.. I dont like giving explanations to everything. ( she replied in a rough tone )

Saying that she left from there with her iPad. He was suspicious on Arushi's behavior. She never hides things from him. He had to keep an eye on her. Arnav was thrilled to know how fast these generation kids are. They are not even 18 and they are already experiencing all of this. The advanced technology today has been playing a pivotal role in it. He had always given her what she wanted and that too without even making much fuss. May be now its time to keep her controlled. . He came to Daadi who was in the Puja room, happily sitting and chanting some prayers. He was about to enter inside when Daadi gestured him to remove his slippers. He sighed , taking off his slippers he then entered inside.

Daadi: Arnav... What are you doing in the Puja room ? Hadnt you stopped entering here from long?
Arnav gave her a sarcastic look to which she smiled and kept aside the holy books.
Daadi: What got you here ?
Arnav: You should stay in your Son's house for some time. I want you to keep an eye on Arushi.
Daadi: Why ? What did she do?
Arnav: She is growing now and this is the age when things can go wrong with any teen if they are not been guided at the right time. I dont have any hopes from her parents. Mr Raizada will be busy in his business trips and his wife in Beauty Saloons and Kittie parties. If you be there with her, I will be little relieved. I want you to update me on any unwanted moves she makes.
Daadi was understanding his concern. He always had been protective towards her.
Daadi: Okay. I will take care of her but you will have to take care of Khushi here. Keep her happy Arnav.. She deserves it.
Arnav took a deep breathe diverting his eyes from Daadi.
Arnav: No one needs to teach me that Daadi. Pack your bags tonight. I will drop you and Arushi there tomorrow morning.

He left the room making Daadi wonder if he and Khushi will stay happy if she chooses to go away from them?

******************

When Arnav entered the bedroom, I was busy talking to Clare, my colleague at San Fransisco. It was morning at US and this was the best time I could reach my contacts and get some update on work .

Khushi: Thanks Clare. You saved me. I will send you an email now. Let me know about the company details. ( I paused ).. Great. Bye..
I happily dropped the call and turned around only to find Arnav's eyes on me. He gave me a surprising look and then reached the mirror where I was standing presently.
Arnav: What company?

I initially thought not to give him any updates about my professional life. But I also know he will find it out soon from his sources. It's better I save his time and anger in that case.

Khushi: I have found an alternate company to work with. I cannot go to San Fransisco for some time, but I can work with its co-partners here. I am going to take some event management task here in this city.
He didnt seem happy but he was not angry either.
Arnav: Arnav Singh Raizada's wife will work ? You are again giving people a chance to mock at me?
Khushi: We are done with this argument a lot before Arnav. I dont need to certify others why I want to work. Every human has that much right.

I walk to the bed and pick up the pillow and a duvet.

Arnav: Now I get it. You want to earn to be able to pay the lawyer fees. For our divorce?
I dont respond to him. I just arrange my pillow and duvet on the couch.
Arnav: KHUSHI.. ( he purposely takes my name roughly which means he is expecting a reply )
Khushi: I have a world beyond this Divorce too Mr Arnav Singh Raizada ( I turn and reply )..
He reaches me again in one long stride and pulls me close. I feel enraged and struggle but he holds my chin and makes me look in his eyes.

Arnav: I am your world.. I am your present and future. There is no where you could run away from me. You want to earn.. Do it.. But at the end of the day I want you in this house, beside me. If that doesn't happen, I know how to cut your wings.

I am hurt seeing the way he plans to handle me. Such a stubborn and arrogant man I have never seen in my life. I push him away with force and then lie down on the couch, pulling the duvet over my head so that I dont have to see his face . I should not be nervous anymore. He can do what he wants and I will do what is right for me.

*****************

The next morning the first thing I do is look into the newspapers once to see if anything related to Viraj and me is pasted. Luckily there is none. I am sure my husband managed it quite well. It felt so nice to see him wiping off the remains of my deeds. It's like in one chance I have pulled two strings. I munch the waffers happily and thats when I see the servant taking some bags outside to the car. Daadi follows him and she is all dressed up to leave. I am worried.

Khushi: Daadi where are you going??
Daadi: I couldnt tell you last night as it was too late. Arnav wants me to stay with Arushi and my son in Raizada house for some days. He is just worried on Arushi's behavior. He thinks I should keep a close watch on her. He is right. I dont want Arushi to end up doing some blunder.

I understand Arnav and Daadi's concern but her sudden departure might give Arnav a chance to play his cards on me. I will have no support if she leaves. I hug her . I dont know if Arnav is doing this on some purpose.

Khushi: come back soon Daadi.
Arushi and Arnav get down the stairs the same time.
Arnav: What time is your extra classes today? ( he asks to Arushi)
Arushi: Evening 5:00 .
They reach at us and Arushi looks at her brother who gestures her to bid bye to me even though she hates me.
Arushi: Bye Mrs Raizada. It was nice spending time with you.
I know she is not saying that by heart but I still reach her out and give her a formal hug. she hugs me back.
Khushi: Same here.

They all leave and I look at the watch. I have got my first assignment to do today. I have a meeting scheduled in the famous Event management company of Delhi who will be giving me a new task if they are impressed by my work. I just want to crack this subcontract from them at any cost so as to start my income again.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 24

I enter the premises of Jashn - An event management company. They are one of the best in Delhi. I have read some articles about them too and they seem to have a very good reputation here. I reach the reception desk who then guide me to the Senior Manager of this company who is currently aware of my appointment with him.

Mr Narayan Kumar, the senior manager greets me and then leads me to his cabin. We take our seats.

Narayan: Have heard a lot about you from Clare. She was your boss there in San Fransisco?
Khushi: Yes. I have worked in her company for few months.
Narayan: And if I am not wrong ,you are Arnav Singh Raizada's wife.

I flinch. This identity will not leave me so easily.

Khushi: Yes.
Narayan: Great. So I dont see a need to deny you then.

I am not pleased with that. I retort.

Khushi: If you are giving me this role only because I am his wife, I better not accept this offer Mr Kumar.
Narayan was a 45 year old man who had given this company almost 20 years of his experience and service. He smiled at me.

Narayan: I like this confidence and self esteem in your Khushi. I was just testing you. There are many people here who have got their jobs on recommendations. I didnt see it coming for you, neither you showed any interest in adding that tag of being Mr Raizada's wife to join here. So with all my due respect, I will be more than happy to grant this position to you.

I was totally overwhelmed. The little anger which had rose inside me had dissolved again.

Khushi: Thank you Mr Kumar. I will give my best to this Company, you can see that through my work.
Narayan: I dont doubt on that. This is your offer letter and please start working on your first assignment from tomorrow. Your package details we shall email you. All the perks and bonuses will be decided later once you finish your first contract successfully.

I get up taking the offer letter and shake hands with him again.

Khushi: Great. I will see you tomorrow then.

Mr Kumar lead me till the cabin door and then I hurried towards the exit with a total satisfaction in my heart that I had finally acheived something to start my career again.

****************

I have bought the sweets but there is no one whom I can share it with.
Should I go to Raizada house and share my happiness with Daadi and Arnav's father? They have always been good to me. But going there means facing Mrs Raizada, Arushi and Tanya too. So what? I dont care to get bothered by their presence. People who hate me can hate me forever.

I ask Arnav's driver to take me to Raizada Mansion. I reach there in 30 minutes. It's a huge house. I must say Raizada's are shaukeens of being classy in every place they stay. The security stops me at the entrance.

Security: You have an appointment?
Khushi: I dont but..
Security: Then sorry Maam. You cannot go inside.

I know this man here doesnt know who I am otherwise he wouldnt have denied me from entering. Suddenly I hear Arnav's father Ayush Raizada who is nearing us.

Ayush: Security.. How can you ask her for appointment? She is the bahu of this house.. Arnav's wife.

The security stiffens and apolozises.

Security: Sorry Madam.
Khushi: Its okay.
Ayush: Come in Khushi.. How did you end up coming here?
Khushi: I wanted to share a good news..
Ayush: Oh Great. COme inside first and tell it before everyone. ( he insisted and took me inside the house)

Obviously two faces went low in the house after seeing me here. Mrs Amrita Raizada and her Neice Tanya both were busy having Juice at the Couch and they got up now.

Amrita: What is she doing here Ayush?
Ayush: Amrita.. She has some good news to share.. ( he roughly replies to avoid any backanswer from his wife)
Tanya: What? Good news? Is she pregnant?
Amrita: How is that possible? She has just returned recently from San Fransisco. And Arnav never have been there so.. Ohh God. Is this child not Arnav's ?

I feel pathetic to hear such comments from these ladies. Daadi walk down the stairs and she too hears it all.

Daadi: Amrita.. What nonsense are you talking?
Ayush: Yes Amrita. Let Khushi speak first. Please.
Amrita zips her lips.
Khushi: I got a job here. ( I extend the sweets box towards Daadi)
Daadi is so happy. I lean down and take her blessings. She feeds me the sweet first and then eats it too.
Ayush: Job? What was the need ?
Khushi: Standing on your feet isnt always about "NEEDS" Uncle.
Ayush: I know. ( he places his palm on my head) God Bless you.
Tanya: Thats what happens when you get a poor class bahu Uncle.
Daadi: TANYA! Bus!!

Tanya frowns and I really dont mind what she said. I reach her with the sweet box.

Khushi: You are right. Middle class girls are always raised like that. They know they have responsibilities unlike rich girls who can only flaunt their elder's money.
Tanya clenches her jaw and pushes my sweet box away. I have a grip on the box though so nothing goes wrong.

Daadi likes my comment. Tanya leaves and so does Amrita Raizada.

Ayush: Ignore them Khushi. DId you inform this to Arnav? What did my Son say?
Khushi: He knows I was applying. I will tell him tonight about this.
Daadi: He wont appreciate it I know but still dont mind him Khushi. He has that manly ego a little more in him since years.

WHo better than me knows that? I sit there for sometime and then again make my way to the house. I have so much to prepare for the next day.

*******************


Arnav was busy in his conference when the cabin door knocked and Aman Mathur entered in.

Arnav:  I am busy Aman. Cant you see?
Aman: It's important ASR..

Arnav reads Aman's serious expressions and understood this has to be something really important.

Arnav: Excuse me gentleman , I will be back in some time. Till then Rohan will take you over the other points.

He walked out of the room. Aman followed him.

Aman: SG had called and he wants to meet you right now.
Arnav: What's so urgent? He could have told you on the phone.
Aman: I asked him but he denied. The car is ready downstairs.
Arnav: I am not going anywhere Aman.

Aman was surprised. It never happened that Arnav Singh Raizada denied meeting SG ever. SG was a very famous MLA of this city. He had won the elections continuously from past few times and had a very huge power and control over many important things.

Arnav: If He has anything important to talk, ask him to come here.
Aman: This never happened before.
Arnav: Doesnt mean it can never happen Aman.
Aman: Let me remind you ASR, our land contract for the new Office of AR is still awaiting approvals which only SG can provide through his sources. We cannot afford to upset him.
Arnav smirked.

Arnav: DOnt worry about that. He wont deny me EVER!! Henceforth if he has any work with me, he will walk down here. I wont go anywhere. Tell him that.

Arnav turned to leave.

AMan: He is a MLA ASR.. How can he come here?
Arnav (walking towards the conference room): Thats none of my concern.

This time Arnav was very adamant in not entertaining the extra benefits SG was getting from him all these years, only because he was a powerful politician. That raised some doubts in Aman's mind too. It looked like Arnav Singh Raizada had now an upper hand on everything.

******************

Two white colored Ambassador cars halted at the premises of AR Fashion house. The security guards secured the area for the Politician who was here to meet Arnav Singh Raizada at his office. SG got down from the car and then headed with his secretary inside the office building. Aman Mathur was the first person he met on the floor.

Aman: Good evening Sir.
SG: What is wrong with ASR Aman? Does he know whom is he dealing with? What is keeping him so busy here that he cannot come and meet me?
Aman: Sir.. PLease calm down.. ASR will see you shortly in his cabin..

SG gestured his secretary to wait out of ASR's cabin with the other guards while he entered inside with Aman. After 5 minutes Arnav got in the same room.

Arnav: Good to see you here SG!!

SG frowned at him. Aman walked out of the room leaving them alone. Arnav took his seat.
Arnav: What will you drink?
SG: Iss batameezi ki wajah jaan sakta hoon? ( Can I know the reason behind your misbehaviour?)
Arnav smirked and leaned back on his chair.

SG: I know you like playing mind games Arnav but not with me. ( he warned)
Arnav: Aawaz neeche  (lower your voice) ( his pitch increased)
SG gritted his teeth.

Arnav: I dont know about you but I have a lot of work to finish. It would be great if you come to the point SG.
SG: My sources told me about you bribing the media..
Arnav: So? My money.. I will do anything with that.
SG: It was related to Khushi.
Arnav took a deep breathe and kept noting the changing expressions on SG's face.

SG: What is it between her and Viraj? Why am I not aware of it?

Arnav: You don't need to be aware of anything SG. Its too late. And if you still want to know then ask Viraj about it. I have heard you are helping him build his political career these days. He will be your right hand and what not.
SG: Arnav.. I can see how high you are flying these days. Dont forget tumhaari kamzori main jaanta hoon. Money and status is all that you care about. I can end it all in one second.

Now Arnav Singh Raizada was furious. He banged his fist on the table and got up.

Arnav: Aur main aap ki kamzori jaanta hoon. Don't make me go wild SG. You will be at a huge loss. There are things which only I know about you and keeping it safe so that you timely keep fulfilling my demands. That was the deal we have been following from past few years. Keep it that way or else I can show you too what happens if someone messes with my life. Now get out.. ( he barked in anger)

SG got up from his chair and gave Arnav a warning look.

SG: I will come back to you once I know the real reason behind Khushi slapping Viraj. And if that has anything to do with her happiness, and you are ruining it , then I will not mind showing you who has the upper hand Arnav. Mat bhulo Khushi meri kya hai..
Arnav : OUT...( he roared)

It was such a humiliation for a MLA to be shown the door like this. SG walked out of Arnav's cabin and Arnav landed back on his chair. He knew SG will have an eye on Khushi and Viraj now. But he need not worry. Whatever happens and whoever tries Khushi belongs to him.. He wont let her go out of his life..

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 25

After a little meet and greet in Raizada house, I returned back to the farm house. I was little tired but the joy of being employed again and being able to work again was keeping me active still. I entered the bedroom and suddenly before I could close the door, a strong arm closed my mouth not allowing me to scream. I was so afraid. I couldnt even turn behind and see who he was because I was been held so firmly by this man from behind. I struggled to set free but the very next moment I felt this man whispering in my ears.

"Dont you realise my touch either?"

Thats when I start cooling down my fear. He is my husband Arnav. His hold on me eases and he makes me turn around to face him.

"Yeh kya batameezi hai? I was so scared " I shout at him.
"You were?" he asks pinning my hair strand behind the ear. I push his arm away and step back. "Dont do that again, samjhe aap?"
"I cant gurantee that Khushi. I like scaring people, especially my wife who doesnt even want to share her good moments with me" he retorts but is still keeping his calm at least through his expressions. "So you got the Job, didnt you?"
"Yes. And without your recommendation. I am sure you arent happy about that"
"Mr Narayan Kumar doesnt recruit people based on recommendations" he replied softly.
"You know him?" I ask little confused. "You knew I was going there for the Interview? How?"

He smirked at me and the next moment his finger curled on the Mangalsutra I was wearing and he pulled me to him by it. I almost stumbled by his action and landed on him for support. We were close enough to hear each others breathes.

"This chain is like a GPS chip. It tells me everything about you even before you act." he replies staring in my eyes.

I gulp.

"I can even read your pulse rate Khushi, just by holding it in my fingers" he adds.

I realise he was closing the last remaining distance between us and thats not what I want. So I push him away somehow and then walk to the dressing table to remove my watch and earrings. He makes his way on the recliner and takes off his shoes. He can see me in the mirror though.

"So ? Whose your first client?" he asks looking at me in the mirror.
"I dont know. And even if I had known I wouldnt share. I am professional in those terms"

I turn to him after taking off the earrings.

"And if you can read my pulse rate so easily then you wont find difficulty in getting these details by yourself too. " I add
He gets up and reaches me. I dont run from him. Why should I? If I have to stay in this house, I will have to learn to keep him in control. I know what he will do. He will max speak some hurtful words again and then walk out of the room. So fine. I am ready for it. But what he does next is totally surprising. He picks me in one go in his arms. I swim my legs in air to get down.

"Arnav? Put me down. Arnav .. where are you taking me?"

He takes me in the bathroom and now my pulse is beating way high than normal. He closes the bathroom door behind us by his feet and then stands right below the Jacuzzi. With his elbow he presses the Jacuzzi button and the water splashes from all the three directions on us . We are wet totally, still clothed and I am still in his arms.

He looks in my eyes and utters.

"Keep your mind cool Khushi.. Because in this house only I have that right to keep it red hot and behave like one. Understood?"

He puts me down after that and I turn the Jacuzzi Off. I am so angry on this behavior from him. His phone rings outside and he gives me a quick glance from top to bottom once before leaving the shower. I close the door angrily after he leaves and fist my fingers. I wish to strangle this man for playing with me like this.

*****************

SG had always believed Arnav to behave so indecently some day. If SG had power to rule the country, Arnav Singh Raizada had the power to rule over people's mind by playing with their weaknesses. Arnav was doing exactly the same with him. After visiting the Raizada office, SG went straight to see Viraj.

Viraj was resting at his home but the moment his maid told him who has come to see him, he doesnt waste a minute to come down. He sees SG at the couch and immediately goes and greets him.

Viraj: Uncle? Why didnt you tell me before if you wanted to meet me? I would have come to your house.
SG: (serious tone): Viraj. What is it between you and Khushi?

Viraj was tensed.

Viraj: Jee?
SG: Dont be so shocked. What do you think?? You can hide anything from me and I will tolerate it?
Viraj: You know Khushi, Uncle?
This question shook SG who had almost forgot in all this that he had always kept his identity and his relationship with Khushi, hidden from others. He should have framed the question in other way than asking Viraj so openly.

SG( calming down): Viraj.. You are not a common man now. Very soon you are standing in the elections with me. All of your personal problems have to be dealt maturedly. I heard what happened in the Parking lot between you and .. ( he paused ) That.. that girl..
Viraj didnt become suspicious of SG at all.

Viraj: Yea. I know it was very displeasing. But I have handled it. I am not going to leak the matter anyhow.
SG: You fool. You know there were Camera's there in the parking lot? And it doesnt take a lot more time for the media or the opposition to raise a finger at you and defame you. Thank Arnav Singh Raizada who tackled all of this very well from his end and destroyed all the video tapes of that parking lot even before any security of that building could see those.. How could you take this matter so lightly. ?

Viraj was stunned.

Viraj: One minute.. Did you say Arnav took care of all this? Did he also know Khushi slapped me?
SG: Will you tell me exactly what happened Viraj? How do you know her?
Viraj was not sure to share it or not but considering SG was a helping hand to him always and almost like his God father now, he thought of sharing everything.

Viraj: Uncle.. Khushi is the one I loved earlier..

SG was shocked. He almost felt like he missed an attack from happening inside him.

Viraj: I dated her 2 years back. But things didnt go as planned. I wanted to build my political career and Khushi was eager for settling down in marriage. So we parted ways. She married as per her Nani's choice. I mean to Arnav Singh Raizada. Then I met her again just few days back in a party. Thats it. I dont understand why all of a sudden she came to me that day in the shopping mall parking lot and slapped me? She talked about some photos and all. I.. I dont have an idea what she was pointing at. Before I could ask her or explain my innocence she left from there. I couldnt do anything about it. Even now, I wish to meet her and ask her the actual matter but you know how Arnav is? He doesnt like any man around his wife. And I dont wish to create more problems between the two. Already she has been adjusting a lot with that man.

SG was shocked to hear all that. Viraj and Khushi loved each other. How come he never came to know that? Did Devyaniji know?

Viraj: Anyways.. But I think I will meet her somehow and confront. I dont want to keep any misconceptions between us either. It will only complicate things further.

SG was lost in his own thoughts. There was so much going on in Khushi's life and he wasnt aware of it? He was really so much engrossed always in his Political career that he never got much time to keep a tab on her by himself. It was just his very close men who gave him some news about her and obviously that wasnt sufficient.

Viraj: Uncle? What are you thinking? Look.. I assure you this is nowhere going to come in my career path. And regarding the elections, I have already set the needed agenda. Would you like to have a look at it once?
SG: No.. Not now. ( he weakly replied) I .. I will leave. Next time dont just hide anything from me. It's an order. I can help you but only if  I am aware what the matter is exactly. Got it?
Viraj noded and then bid bye to SG who got inside his Ambassador car with the guards and left the vicinity of his bunglow.

*******************

I had prepared for my dress, my laptop and all little essentials that I will be carrying tomorrow for office. All I had to do now was eat and sleep sound. I came down to see if the food that I had asked the maid to prepare, was ready or not. Thats when my eyes fell on Arnav who was at the little private Bar counter , just about to pour himself a drink.  Had it been any other times, I wouldnt have bothered if he was drinking and how much he was drinking but since there was no one home apart from me and him, it bothered me. So I rushed to him without wasting much time and stopped him from pouring the drink in the glass.

Khushi: Dont drink.
Arnav: (looking at me with surprise): Excuse me?
Khushi: You heard it right.. Har din peene ki kya zaroorat hai?( What is the need to drink everything?)

I closed the lid of the bottle and kept it aside.

Arnav: Sahi kahan.. Jiski tum biwi ho.. usse peene ki kya zaroorat hai? (Rightly said.. A man who has got a wife like you, doesnt need to drink)

He almost pulled me to him. I was sitting on the other chair next to him at the bar counter now and he was holding my hand.

Arnav: So aaj.. for a change.. Tum peeogi.. Main nahin. (So today.. For a change.. you will drink, not me)
Khushi: What nonsense. I dont drink.

I tried to leave from there but his hold on my arm was too strong.

Arnav: Sshh.. Relax.. Dont tell me you never tried this in San Fransisco.

I am amazed by his thinking about me. Not that I had expected him to think good either.

Khushi: Only because I stayed abroad doesnt mean I change my lifestyle and try things to get dissolve in other cultures.
Arnav: Hmm ( he kept admiring my face as I explained him this)
Khushi: And I wont even try drinking alcohol for anyone. Not even you..

Now he would have accepted that she doesnt want to drink but the last sentence she said had kind of challenged him.

Arnav: Aur main tumhe sharab peela ki rahunga..
Khushi (clenching her jaw once): Hum? Aur Sharab? Kabhi nahi.
Arnav: If I win, what will I get? (he confidently asked )
Khushi: You cant win. So there is no point in thinking what will you get. Leave me..
Arnav: (closed my lips with his finger and continued): If I win.. Main joh maagunga woh tum mujhe dogi ( If I win.. Whatever I ask you should give me that )

My eyes opened wide understanding what he meant but very soon he cleared my cheap thoughts .

Arnav: DEAL?
I push his finger away meeting his eyes strongly.
Khushi: DEAL!! But You too wont drink until this Deal Ends. Which means if you lose, you will never drink. Manjoor hai? (You agree?)
Arnav: (moving back and keeping his arms in pocket, still not shifting his eyes from me): Manjoor hai !! (I agree)

I hurry in the kitchen to check the food and I know he is still watching me run away from him. I have no idea why I agreed to do this Deal with him. I am not someone who likes to play bet or challenges. I feel it too childish. But he convinced me so easily that I kept on agreeing to it. Now all I would have to do is to keep an eye on everything I drink. Because by no chance I can allow him to win.

****************

The next day I reach my new Office and Mr Narayan Kumar leads me to the little cabin which will be my work place for the next coming months or may be even years.

Narayan: Liked the Cabin Khushi?
Khushi: I loved it Sir. Thanks.
Narayan: Okay. So coming to your first assignment. You are going to love it too because I am sure you know that client very well and working with his team will be like working at home.

I dont understand what he meant by that. He sees the confused look on my face and then chuckles softly.

Narayan: I always knew Arnav Singh Raizada is good at keeping secrets.
Khushi: Where did he come from in this conversation?
Narayan: Thats because apart from being your husband, he is your First client too.

I am kind of speechless.

Khushi: What? How ? I mean how is he related to this work?
Narayan: His company is organizing a Huge Fashion Event next month. And he needs us to manage it. Remember one thing Khushi, we have many clients and AR group is no different. So doesnt matter what you share with him, but your work should never be affected by that. Am I clear?

I nod professionally. He greets me again and leaves the cabin. I take a deep sigh. So? My first client is no one else but my husband. Does he know it ?

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 26

I am getting crazy thinking Arnav Singh Raizada is going to be my first Client. I know he is bad at personal relationships but what about professional ones ? I am given contacts of the person who is going to assist me from AR group end to get this Event organized. I dial her and get an appointment fixed for today. But this is in AR group, which means I will have to visit my husband's office. I have no choice. I get up from the chair and taking the respective things I walk out.

As expected Aman Mathur is the first person who reaches out to me as I enter the AR group premises.

Aman: Hello Bhabhi..
Khushi: Call me Khushi. I have an appointment here with the Event Lead for the next month's Fashion show.
Aman (smiled): Ohh Yes. I am aware of that. So Jashn ( the event management company Khushi working for) has assigned this to you? Wow.
Khushi: As if you didnt know. What's wrong with ASR's sources? They didnt find this information for him? Like who is my first client? Or should I say, your Boss purposely chose me to lead this Event for his company?

Aman had a wide smile on his face.

Aman: Staying with ASR.. You too have started using your brains.. I am impressed Bha. ( he was about to say Bhabhi but then paused).. I mean Khushi..
Khushi (sighed in frustration): Where is that lead's cabin?
Aman: Uh.. Before that .. you will have to see ASR.. He always brief's out first the requirements for every Event.

This can be another trick of my husband to ensure I talk to him first...

Khushi: Fine.. I will see him first then.. ( I am about to walk to the cabin but AMan stops me)
Aman: Did you just say you are here from Jashn and not as ASR's wife?

I look at him to understand what is his point?

Aman( smiling): In that case. You will first need an appointment from ASR before entering his cabin, just like that..

Is my Blood pressure rising? I think so..

Khushi: Then get an appointment right now.
Aman: You think ASR is free? I have his whole schedule mapped. He wont be free for next 2 hours..

I know AMan and Arnav are doing this purposely to me.

Khushi: I will wait.!! ( i try to reply politely.)
Aman: The couch is there ( he points with the same politeness)

I walk to the couch and take a seat there. AMan follows me.

Aman: What shall I get for you ?Coffee?
Khushi: I am fine. Will you at least inform him I am here?
Aman: That I can.!! Hold on..

Aman leaves towards the reception area, picks a phone and talks something. He comes back in few minutes.

Aman: Okay.. So he is aware now. You sit.. I will send some coffee..

Even though I deny , Aman orders coffee for me. Almost everyone present here know I am ASR's wife. They keep greeting me while walking too and fro. I smile back and then divert my attention on the Fashion Magazine of AR group. The models are really good. And I can see how best their designers are. No wonder AR Fashion house is one of the best in the country. I keep fliping the pages for hours.

It's been 3 hours now.. I had two coffee's and almost read 3 -4 magazines .. I still get no invitation to go and see ASR.. WHY? Was he doing all this on purpose? I get up and walk to Aman.

Khushi: Still how long?
Aman: I told you he is a very busy man..
Khushi: You said 2 hours.. It's been 3 now..
Aman: I cant guarantee the extension of his meets..
Khushi (sighed): Will you call again and check?
Aman: With pleasure..

He dials Arnav before me..
 Arnav says something to him and Aman moves the receiver aside to ask me.

Aman: He says as his wife he can let you even now in his cabin.. But if you are sticking to be professional then it might take a bit longer..

I am so frustrated with that reply.. I can guarantedly say Arnav was playing with my time. .

Khushi: (gritting her teeth): How long?
Aman asks the same to Arnav on call.
Aman: Cant guarantee.. ( he smiles passively but I can see he feels bad for me too)
Khushi: I will wait!!

I am too much unmoved by his offer. I go back to the couch and sit there. I hate him more for doing this to me.. For spoiling my first day at work.

It's been an hour more, still no call from Arnav. I am totally tired and exhausted doing nothing. I finally decide. I will have to end this or else he will keep me waiting throughout the day. I start walking towards Arnav's cabin. His security follows me asking me to stop. I dont care..
I hurry as fast as I can and open his cabin door. I see Arnav sitting relaxed alone and working on his laptop. He sees me and also the guards who had followed me..

Guards: Maam.. Please leave..
Arnav gestures them not to intervene.. They nod and leave us alone.

Arnav: You broke the decorum of this Office Khushi.
Khushi: You coaxed me to do that.
Arnav: I am the BOSS here.. I can do anything. Do you think people can meet me so easily? It takes weeks for them to even get an appointment and then few more days to actually see me.. ( he was so proud in stating that)
Khushi: I pity them..
Arnav: And I pity for Jashn now.. I can even break our contract with them if they have such indecent employees working for them.

I am amazed. Where is he leading this conversation and why?

Khushi: You cant do that..
Arnav ( leaning back and observing me quickly top to bottom): You are wrong. I can do beyond this too.. UNLESS ( he adds and stops there)
Khushi: Unless?
Arnav: UNless. You give me what I want.. ( he smirks)
Khushi: What? ( I ask in confusion)
Arnav: Share a drink with me.. Lose the Deal we just made yesterday.. and give me what I demand for.. It's simple..

Ohh!! SO he is really so serious about making me drink alcohol?

Khushi: So childish that is!! I expected you to play it more fair Arnav..

He gets up and comes to me.. He lingers his finger on my arm gently.

Arnav: I have many other ways to PLAY with you.. It's just that you CANT TAKE it.!!

I step aside..

Khushi: And stop touching me.. Can we just be two professionals and talk business? That way we can save our time..

He keeps gazing at me and then extends his hand towards the couch..

Arnav: Get seated..
I sigh in relief and sit on the Sofa. He follows and sits opposite to me..

Arnav: The Show we organizing next month is huge.. We have 50+ models participating in that. The Venue is bigger. And most importantly.. The guests are all VIP's. We need the best Camera's, best lights and the best looking ramp for the walk. Will Jashn be able to provide that to us within the decided cost?
Khushi: Costing is something which the Finance team will be aware of .. I am not.
Arnav (interrupted): Thats not a reply which your Client would like to hear Khushi.. And your CLient also being your husband, you cant take advantage of that.

I am stunned by his reply. I can now see how specific he is about his work.

Khushi: Sorry.. I will look into these details for you and get back.
Arnav: (smirking): Better
Khushi: So what are your conditions?
Arnav: What can you offer? ( he asked looking at my lips)

I move my gaze away from his.

Khushi: It's better I talk to someone who is authoried to explain this.. You seem to be getting disengaged..

Arnav was highly impressed by my comment. I was getting sharper these days, he must have noticed that. He got up and dialed someone from his extension. Just in two minutes another man of almost our age got inside.

"Hello ASR"

Arnav: Prashant.. She is from Jashn.. She will be cordinating with you for the next Event.
Prashant shook hands with me.
Khushi: Hello Prashant..

Prashant was very well aware I was also ASR's wife.

Prashant: Hello Maam. Welcome to AR..
Khushi: Thanks (I then look at Arnav) Okay then.. I will get in sync with him for this Show.

I start walking with Prashant when we both suddenly hear Arnav again.

Arnav: Prashant.. (we turn around).. WHile working with her..  Dont forget.. She is also my wife!!
Prashant gave a weak smile to him.
Prashant: Thanks for reminding BOSS and dont worry I will take care of this Boss's Advice.

Prashant left the cabin. I was still in there.
Arnav (looking at Khushi): Keep wearing such outifts. They look good on you.

He has surprised me again by his comment. I am speechless but still looking in his eyes.. He was smirking.. What special did he find in me wearing a Formal knee length skirt and a Semi formal White shirt tucked in it?

Arnav: And this is a Husband's advise.. Not your Boss's. ( he added)

I gulp and then without responding to his request, walk out.!! He is too much sometimes.. !! In fact Always.!!

******************

My day went well. I wasnt for too long in AR group office. After discussing with Prashant, we both headed towards the Venue where this event was going to be organised. It was huge obviously and I had a lot of work to do now. I reached home around 08:00 pm, and to my surprise I could see two vehicles already parked before the house and not to mention few guards were additionally securing the vicinty. Why? Who was here? I get inside the house only to find out a man in his late 50's sitting on the couch whereas his assistant standing behind him. This man looked like some Politician. He stands up seeing me. He doesnt speak anything for the first few minutes. I walk in .

Khushi: Hello.. Aapp??

THis man keeps looking at me little unknown expresssions but his assistant replies on his behalf.

Assistant: He is SG.. One of the strongest MLA here.
I nod and put a smile on my lips.  That term "SG" makes me wonder why it felt heard.? Was it from Arnav anytime? I dont think so.
Khushi: Kuch kaam tha? (Had any work?)
Assistant: Ji.. ASR se kuch kaam tha.. (Yes. HAd work with ASR)

I quickly turn to the maids.

Khushi: Is he back home?
Maid: No Maam.
Khushi: Is he informed of the guest?
Maid: No Maam. They just arrived few minutes ago..
Khushi (little frustrated): Ritu?? What you guys do? We have guests waiting for him, and you didnt even inform? (I angrily ask the maid who puts her head down )

Suddenly I hear that SG speaking to me.

SG: It's okay beta..

The way he called me "Beta" (my child) makes me look back at him. No one has ever called me with so much humbleness after my mother and Nani .

Khushi: Aap.. Aap please baithiye.. I will call up Arnav and inform..

"I am home" came a reply from the door. Arnav had reached home. I turn to see him. He is walking towards me but his eyes is on the politician who is seatedhere.

Arnav: SG .. Yeh mera ghar hai.. I hate unwelcomed Guests. !!

I am tongue-tied. How can he speak to a politician like that? Arnav comes to me and holds me on my waist, looking at SG. I flinch at his touch but his hold is firm. I dont understand what was the need to show this politician how good and happy we both are?

SG: I know you dont like unwelcomed guest. But you left me no choice. These days you dont come to see me, so I have to follow you here.

I have no idea what they talking and how their work is even related ?

Arnav: (looking at me): You can go inside sweetheart.. I will take it from here.

"SWEETHEART"?? I frown at him for saying that. It was unnecessary. I walk away with Ritu, our maid, inside the Kitchen. It wont look good to send the guest without any tea/Snacks.

Arnav sits on the Couch before SG. His assistant leaves from the room ,giving them some privacy to talk.

SG: I have talked to Viraj.  He told me about Khushi and him..
Arnav: I am not interested.. ( he sternly replied)

Arnav walked to the Bar counter and made one drink for SG. He passed the glass to him,

SG: Where's your glass?
Arnav: (smirking): My Wife doesnt want me to drink.. We have some code between us.. I am abiding by that.
SG: WHy pretending Arnav? Dont I know you follow no one ?
Arnav: Then you must be also knowing if I still follow someone, it has to be for my own benefit. Anyways.. dont get into this.. Why are you here?
SG: Viraj has no clue about those pictures. There has to be some misunderstanding..
Arnav: Why should I believe him?
SG: (sighed in disappointment): Thats your problem. You dont want to trust anybody.. Not even your wife?
Arnav: Trust my WIFE? (he laughed).. You kidding me SG? ( he laughed again and then suddenly stopped and became serious ).. She didnt even give a shot to explain me her side of the story and what exactly happened that night between her and Viraj.. I cant TRUST HER!!

SG was about to say something but thats when Khushi came out with Ritu getting some snacks for them. SG was not going to let this matter slip from his hand so easily. He will go through the extremes to ensure that no one hurts his daughter.. Khushi Gupta anymore.

_______________________________________________________________________________.


Part 27

I keep the tea tray on the table and Ritu starts serving. SG is constantly looking at me and I feel little uneasy now. Arnav notices that too.

Arnav: Khushi.. Get back to the room. You are not required here.

I frown at him. I really cant understand this man. At one instance he wants to show others all is good between us and the next instance he ruins it all by shouting at me before the same third person.

SG: Arnav.. She is your better half and..
 Arnav: (interrupting): Nobody talks between me and my Wife SG. Bear that in mind.. ( he turns back to me).. GO!!

I dont give him a chance to insult me further. I walk away.

Once Khushi was far away from their sight, Arnav looked back at SG.

Arnav: What are you doing SG? Do you want your little secret to be out before Khushi? That she is your daughter? Out of any wed lock? ( he added that in sarcasm)
 SG gritted his teeth.
 SG: It was been agreed between us that you will never let it out and inturn I will sign all your business demands whenever arises.
 Arnav: I am still at my word. You arent. The way you were staring at Khushi, if she had realised it, wont that raise any doubts in her mind?

SG was silent. Arnav was right.

SG: You dont know what a father goes through seeing his daughter right before his eyes and yet not being able to reciprocate the love he has for her.

SG was convinced. He was admiring his daughter way too close that's because this the first time she was so much near him and most importantly she even talked to him. His eyes turned moist.

Arnav: SG.. If you are done with your emotional drama then we should be ending this meet here.

SG composed himself and got up from the couch.

SG: I am tolerating all your tantrums only because you are my daughter's husband. Otherwise..( he pointed a finger at Arnav who immediately pushed away his finger aside with the same anger)
 Arnav: Grow up SG.. A father in law always has to bow his head for his daughter's happiness.
 SG: Earlier I had a hope that Khushi is happy with you, even though I know how rude your behavior has been to others, always. But after seeing her so closely today, I don't think that's true. So mark my words Arnav, if I come to know Khushi is unhappy in this marriage, I will end this all in no time and free her from this cage. And remember, once she is out of your life, you cannot stand so tall before me, ever.!!

Arnav gritted his teeth.. There had always been a fair rapport between him and SG from a long time, but looked like today the father in him was overpowering their Business tie ups and he will have to find out a way to keep things back in control. He hated being dominated by others. SG left the house and Arnav stormed towards the bedroom where Khushi had already got changed into her night dress.

I was trying to wipe off the nail paint from my fingers. When Arnav came in the room, my attention diverted to him. He was not in a very good mood.

Khushi: Now I understand where does all your power comes from? ( I taunted him on purpose)

Arnav was already not in a good mood and my taunts made it more worse. He came to me and pushed away the Nail paint remover liquid bottle. He then held my arms and made me stand up.

Arnav: I don't need politicians to grow my power.. Whatever luxury, comfort and lifestyle you are seeing around is earned by me..

Looks like I have touched his weak nerve. He stares in my eyes and then leaves me roughly. I suddenly smell a strong perfume from his coat..

Khushi: This perfume?? ( I smelled again) This is a ladies perfume.. isn't it? How come your coat smells it so strongly?

I have already different thoughts going in my head. I can imagine him spending time with some women, like I have always doubted , and what he also keeps openly flaunting to me about.. He gives me a offensive look and then removes a perfume bottle from the inner pocket of his suit.  So it was the bottle he carried in his pocket which probably got leaked.

Arnav: Tumhaare liye.. ( For you) For your new job..

I am overwhelmed.. Is he impressing me? I don't know, but I take it from him. The next instance he pulls me by my back and I land myself on him sub consciously.

Arnav: Tumhe laga I was with a woman?? Got jealous Sweetheart??

I smirk and very carefully unwind his arms off me.

Khushi: Mujhe koi faraq nahi padta Arnav..( I do not bother Arnav).. Your affairs, pre marriage or post has no effect on me. So you need not have to give me any explanations or clear my doubt's. I am concentrating on my career now. That's enough for me to stay happy. You do anything, I dont care...

I can see Arnav clenching his jaw.

Arnav: Let me see how long you stick to that Mrs Khushi Singh Raizada.. ( he taps my nose and then leaves to the poolside to make a call)

I wipe my nose where he touched and then start cleaning the nail paint again.

Arnav: Bolo Aman.. ( he speaks over  the phone). Yea.. I gave her..You should have packed it properly. It leaked. Anyways what happened to that Land deal? I am desperate to acquire it soon. How long will the proposal be on hold like this? Work on it asap and give me an update tomorrow.

He disconnected the call. I had heard it all as he was really loud. When he enters the room I ask him.

Khushi: So this gift is actually from Aman.. Not you..
 Arnav: It's from me ( he specifies again)
 Khushi: Was the idea yours ??
 Arnav had no reply.
 Khushi: Nahi?? Okay.. Toh selection aap ne kiya hoga.. ( So you must have selected it?).

Arnav had a clue what I was trying to prove here.

Khushi: Yeh bhi nahi?? Toh.. packing..?? Woh aap ne ki hogi.. Hai naa? (Not even this? Then ...Packing ?? That you must have done.. Right??)

Arnav had no reply..

Khushi (faked a sigh) : See.. That confirms.. The gift is from Aman.. Not you.. Anyways.. Tell him I have thanked him for this. I loveeeed the fragrance. He has a good choice..

Arnav had heard enough praises of another man from me and he definitely didn't like it. But who cares ? I leave down for the kitchen giving a shout to Ritu to assist me in cooking but the moment I am out of the room I do hear a loud sound. It's the table lamp probably which got unlucky today as Arnav might have kicked it from its position in anger. I sigh. This man only knows to destroy things.

**************

I was cutting the veggies when I suddenly heard Ritu laughing. She was just beside me making the Roti's.

Khushi: What happened ?
 Ritu: Nothing Didi.

She called me Didi sometimes and only before guests she calls me Maam.

Khushi: Ritu.. You can tell me.. What is it that made you laugh all of a sudden?
 Ritu: Arnav Bhaiyaa is sitting at the dinning table, waiting for the dinner.
 Khushi: So?
 Ritu: It's usually his time to make a drink. But since the time you have returned back, I can see him changing for good. I am not married yet so very curious to know does marriage change every man ? Even the toughest ones like Arnav Bhaiyaa??

Her concerns are genuine..But why dont I see the difference in him? I still see the same angry brooded young man in him who is always ready with his weapons to win the battles.. I take the Roti dough from Ritu and speed up making the Roti's. I had no clue he was waiting.

Khushi: Your Arnav bhaiyaa.. what was his routine when I was not here?
 Ritu: He was not good. Initial days, he skipped his meals. Only kept drinking. We all were scared of him that time. He would shout at anyone of us for any silly reason. But later his anger mellowed down.

I had expected him to go through all of this. After all a wife eloping, only to save her grace from her own husband does hit a man's ego.

Khushi; Did he ever get any of his woman friends here? At home?
 Ritu ( pinching her own neck): Never didi.. Arnav Bhaiyaa never got a woman home.

That kind of soothed me but it doesn't mean he never had affairs behind me. He can meet them outside this house.

I am done making the Roti's. I make two plates and take it out. Ritu follows with the other bowls. He sees me keeping the food plate before him and then without a word, he starts eating. I sit opposite to him. There is only the sound of the cutleries. I do observe him in between the morsels. He eats so unimaginably good. All eyes on the plate. It's like he is showing utmost respect to the food while eating. Not even once he looked beyond that plate and food. Was he a foodie? Probably yes, I remember Daadi telling me that someday. He never got a good opportunity to eat food like this. As most of his time got spent out with Clients and the rest in this farm house, eating what the maids cooked. Obviously his step mother never showed any interest in cooking delicacies for him neither Daadi stayed with him before. Thats the reason why he relishes my cooked food so much. But what will happen when I leave him? He will be bound to eat outside food again. But I cant help. He is the one responsible for losing a wife like me.

Arnav: ( still looking in his own plate): Admiring me wont fulfill your hunger. Eat..

My hand fumbles with the spoon. I didn't know he will notice my attention on him. I keep my eyes low and continue eating again.

**************

The next day when I enter the AR office again, I find some known faces whom I have met the previous day. I like the staff here, they are very cooperative, so much opposite to their Boss and my husband. I walk inside Prashant's cabin though I do see my husband standing behind the glass walls of his cabin and noticing me. Me and Prashant have just started our discussions when suddenly the receptionist comes there and tells me I am being called in the Models room. I have no idea why though. I still walk there to the room where the Models are being trained. I step inside.. Arnav is already there with Aman.

Aman: Hi girls... ASR wants to check on your preparations for the next shoot.

Arnav knows I am in but he doesnt pay any attention. The models are standing in a line and he walks through each one of them , gazing their faces and the confidence level. I stop and fold my arms. This was some kind of show he purposely wanted me to watch.

Arnav: ( looking at one Model) : Aliya right?
 The Model nods.
 Aliya: Yes ASR..
 Arnav: Good. I have seen your portfolio. Nice pictures.

She feels happy by his praises. Others are jealous of course. Arnav walks ahead to the others. He stops again.

Arnav: Kavita ??
 Kavita poses and smiles at him.
 Arnav: You need to shape up your body. You are going to be the second one to walk on the ramp.
 Kavita feels embarassed. She takes it sportingly though.
 Kavita:  I will ASR..
 Aman has no clue whats happening and why. I am still there and watching this scene with utmost clarity. Arnav sees me and then looks back at the models.

Arnav: We have a party tonight girls.. Especially for the dedication you have shown for this Company.. I am sure you all are going to make it for tonight..

The models smile and their happiness can be read on their faces.

Aman: Party? ASR.. You never told that before..
 Arnav: So what? You heard it now Aman. Start the preparations..

The models dispersed and so did Aman to make the preps. I wait until Arnav comes to me and looks in my eyes.

Arnav: 50+ Best looking models your husband is going to be surrounded tonight. ( he steps ahead and almost pins me to the wall behind. .His eyes still staring in mine) I hope.. Tumhe koi faraq nahi padta.. ( I hope you dont mind that)

He smirks as I am totally speechless for first few seconds. Now .. the entire game plan he has brightens up in my mind. He wants to make me jealous? Should I laugh over it? He is taking it too seriously. Poor guy. Will he be heartbroken if it really doesnt end up the way he was thinking? I carefully push him away and come out of his Pinning .

Khushi: ENJOY!!

I walk out of that room. I dont want to see his reactions after this.. He is doing all this just to make me jealous. He doesnt know that aint possible because I have no interest in this man.. Not even a pinch of it.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 28

THis was brilliant. My husband was going to party with his Models. And expects me to feel jealous about it. !! Does he think its that easy? I am not a woman who can get attached to him only because I dont like seeing him with other women. I am not the one who will so easily get entangled in his web. Such tricks from him might have worked if I had a soft corner for him, but to be honest, I dont. And looks like I never will if he keeps pushing his limits in the wrong directions. I come back to Prashant and we leave to the Venue where the fashion event next month  was going to take place. I did not have enough days and hence didnt like wasting time in thinking about my so called Husband's plans for tonight.

I spend my entire day at the venue discussing with Prashant what exactly will be needed for the event and how quickly. Meanwhile I kept getting texts from my husband. He was inviting me for the Party tonight. I didnt respond. Why should I be keen enough to watch him trying to make me jealous? I am happy home. I give Prashant a memo about the next day's agenda and then come out of the Venue. A posh mercedes is waiting there for me. I spotted its for me by seeing Aman Mathur there. He reached me in few strides.

Aman: Hello again!!
Khushi: Hi.. And bye I am leaving.

I open the Book a Cab App on my phone to go back home.

Aman: THe car is at your service Khushi Bhabhi..
Khushi: I didnt ask one.
Aman: ASR is very generous for you these days.
Khushi ( chuckled sarcastically): I see that. It's his next set of mood swings probably. Tell him I dont need his ride. I can self manage.
Aman: I like that spirit.. But I am sorry.. I cant deny him. I have his specific orders to get you in the party.
Khushi: right!! I forgot.. You never DENY him for anything.. ( I fold my arms angrily) Tell me one thing Aman.. Would you be the same if he had messed up with someone of your own? Like your sister or so?

Aman took few seconds pause.

Aman: Why do you always keep getting that? I take you no less than my own sister or at least a friend.
Khushi: I would prefer not having friends ever than having one like you. .

I try to get past him. Thats when I hear his voice again.

Aman: He pays me double if I get his orders fulfilled.. ( his voice doesnt have any pride in saying that though)

I turn around.

Khushi: I knew it was only for money that you keep taking his bulshit orders..
Aman: My sister is having Cancer.. ( his tone becomes weak suddenly and my heart beats soften)

I wait for him to continue.

Aman: I need a lot of money to get her cured. She is hardly 20. ( he looks down)

I didnt knew that. I gulp.

Aman: ASR had offered me to help by paying off all the bills whenever needed. But I cant take that huge favour from anyone Khushi. So I decided to get his orders fulfilled so that if he pays me it wont be a charity.!! So never mind how stupid or irrelevant he keeps commanding me, I complete that with full dedication. I dont care if its right or wrong because if I start judging, my sister might lose her life.

I am unnerved listening to that. My eyes became moist.

Aman: Please.. Allow me to take you to the party where he wants you to be.

I take a few seconds to understand my next actions and then without a word, I get inside the Posh car. He is contended with my decision and gets in the car too.

Khushi: This is not for you or him.. Its for your sister I am going there Aman. But dont think I will do everything what you ask me to do using that excuse.
Aman: ( sighed): I hope some day I am able to deny ASR if he is asking me to do anything unfavourable for you to accept.

I didnt speak a word about it for few minutes, but then I remembered my clothes had a problem. I cannot be there in these formal clothes.

Khushi: I should change my dress.
Aman: Have taken care of that. We have a dressing room and few clothes of your choice there so that you can change.

Of course. My husband can take care of that easily. I keep my mouth shut again until we reach the venue where tonight's party has been arranged. It's a Pub and specially blocked for few hours only to entertain this over budgeted party my husband was throwing unnecessarily.

Aman shows me the room where I need to change my outfit.

Aman: The theme is Black.. We have kept a variety of outfits in black for you. Please choose anything you like.
Khushi: Why? Didnt he specify that too? What type of outfit he wants to see me in when he is surrounded by all his models? ( I mock)
Aman (smiles): I see a lot of guts in you than before. Good for you. Get ready and I will meanwhile inform ASR that you are here.

He leaves and I lock myself in the changing room. After a long discussion with my own self on what to wear, I choose a simple black saree out of all. Thats the only one outfit which can cover me maximum. Probably ASR had not seen this outfits yet otherwise he wouldnt have opted those for me, not in public at least. I have sensed his possessiveness before. I drape the Saree and the thin strip sleeveless designer blouse and look myself in the mirror. I have lost some weight since I have returned back to India. And why wont I? I have so much stress here. Every minute is like a new challenging drill for me. I hear a door knock. It's Aman again.

Aman: You done Khushi Bhabhi?? The  party has just started.

I open the door and come out. I have a little difficulty in carrying sarees that's because I had never got the opportunity to wear it constantly, though I liked it when I was in college. I had a small group of friends and we always used to wait for such functions at college when we could wear Sarees. It made us look mature and obviously all the additional attention from boys. Aman escorts me to the party. There is a whole lot of crowd inside and I can see many Models in their best skinny outfits enjoying the party. Aman passes me a welcome drink but I deny politely.

Khushi: No Thanks. I wont risk drinking anything here, especially from you or him.
Aman: Is that because I had spiked your drink while welcoming you at the Airport?
Khushi: I never trusted you Aman and I cant change my decision so easily. Anyways, I will take that seat there. I don't know these people. No one needs to worry about me. I am attending this party and this is enough for you to get your extra money from him.

Aman doesn't get a chance to defend. I sit on the chair and start accessing my mobile phone hoping there would be something which can pass my time here. The music goes too loud suddenly and the lights dim. My eyes unwantedly wander on the dance floor. I see my husband Arnav in the middle of the models, opening the Champagne bottle and pouring it in their glasses. His eyes hovered on me in between and the frequency of his stares on me rather than the models became quite rapid. I dont concentrate on him. The half drunk models were so much enthusiastic to get his attention on the other end. Arnav had kept his word though. He wasnt touching a drop of alcohol. And thats because of the deal between us. He will refrain himself from drinking until he makes me drink once. All this seems so childish to me at the moment. I look back on my mobile as it starts ringing. It's call from Sheetal. I am happy to receive it.

Sheetal: Hi Khushi.. Its been long since we talked. How are you?
Khushi: Yea. Life got busy SHeetal. But I am fine.
Sheetal: Whats that music behind? Are you out?
Khushi ( Looking at Arnav): Yes. My husband is partying with his models and I am invited to.
Sheetal: This is a great opportunity for you to click his pictures with the models.. I mean some really bad pics. If you still interested in the Divorce, these pictures can help us.
Khushi: Nice thought. But I am right now focussing on my career Sheetal. I have managed to get a job here.
Sheetal: Oh Great. I am glad you are shaping up your life on your terms Khushi. I am with you. Call me anytime you need. Okay? Bye..

I disconnect the call and keep it aside. The idea looks great. But getting his pictures so openly will pose a problem as his eyes are never leaving me  to take this chance.  And Divorce is the last thing in my mind right now, though I havnt given it up completely. I see Arnav again who has picked a random model for a dance. He tries to see my reactions by placing his palm flirtingly over her back. I do give him my reactions. I press my lips nodding a clear No. I gesture him that the other tall model beside him was better than the one he was already dancing with. Though not very clear, but I still can guess he might have clenched his jaw seeing me unaffected. His money was getting wasted. But he was a fool to think all this even matters to me. He was never the man whom I hoped he might have been. After Viraj's exit from my life I had never imagined I would end up being married so soon. But when it started happening, I pictured my life to be just like a normal house wife's. Daadi had given me a little idea of Arnav's short temper before marriage but then that was not my concern. I had no plans to irritate my husband or devoid him of marital rights. I was going to give in my best to this marriage only if he had tried hard. But he never planned it like me. He only wanted a toy who can dance on his fingers and whom he never offered any respect. I remember recently he had  demanded a baby from me. But when my life is so unstable with him, how can I give birth to a third life and complicate it more? I would still have given it a go had it been the early days of our marriage. Now, when I know what mess he is capable of doing in my life, why will I take that risk? But Why was I thinking all this now? There was no point in digging old graves. I have already gone past all that hopes from him.

I feel someone blowing hot air on my neck. I startle and turn around. Arnav smirks at me and holds me steady before I stumble in fear seeing him so close to me.

Khushi: You shouldnt be here. The models might crash down on the floor if they dont have you between them.. ( I tease)
Arnav: Khoobsurat lag rahi hoo (You are looking very beautiful)

I feel shivers in my spine as he rests his palm the same way like he did on that Model's back earlier. As far as I know him, he doesnt openly praise anyone.

Arnav: What did you think? I gave this party for the Models ? ( he smirked) I dont waste my time in unnecessary matters Khushi.

Now thats a surprise for me. If he didnt give this party for the Models then what was it for ?He makes me walk with him to the center stage, his hand now slipped on my waist and resting there while he takes the mike offered to him by Aman.

Arnav: May I have your attention girls..

All the models diverted their attention on us.

Arnav: I have always been asked if my marriage is real or am I Divorced? Why doesnt my wife make any public appearance? Why I am not seen or heard talking about my wife in social events? ( he presses me firmly towards him).. Today I want to put an end to all these questions. The reason why she was been kept hidden from the world all this while is because .. I want to keep everything related to her .. just for ME!! ( he looks at me again) I am selfish for her.

I feel my heart in my throat. Is this just to attract the Media towards him? Is this some form of drama which he loves doing everytime in almost all of his parties?

Arnav: So everyone please put your hands together for my wife.. Khushi Singh Raizada.

The girls crowd did cheer for us but I could sense streaks of jealousy in most of their eyes. Every model doted my husband  and if he introuduces his wife like this, it will create a deep pain in their hearts. Arnav leans and whispers in my ears.

Arnav: Dont deny for the dance.

I keep staring in his eyes after that with surprise as he drags me gently to the dance floor. This is the first time he has officially introduced me. Every pair of eyes are on us. He holds me with ease yet I feel suffocated when his arms land on my back. I keep reminding myself there must be some selfish motive behind he doing all this today. He isnt changing. He can never change. A man who doesnt trust me cannot have true feelings for me ever. All this was fake. All this was only for showing off the people how much he loved me. Such a terrible show off this was and I had to just go with it without my wish.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 29

Can I believe his eyes? He hadnt taken off his eyes off me since the time we were dancing. Is he so excellent in fooling others? Can he be such a perfectionist in pretending to be so much in love with me? What was the need? Whom did he want to show that ? How is he benefitted? Or is it the other way round? In the excuse of pretending, he is actually using this opportunity to get close to me? Is that possible? Why me? He might have so many other women waiting for his attention. Why will he throw his interest on me then? Only because I am his wife and he wants all his rights on me?

I hear everyone clap and that gets me out of my stance. Arnav looks at the crowd and then gently drags me away from the dance floor. Aman is the first person to reach us.

Aman: ASR.. You have an important guest here to see.

The way Aman looks at him, makes Arnav understand who the guest was.

Arnav: She wasnt invited here.
Aman: Yes. But you know I cant deny her from seeing you. What do you want me to do?
Arnav was about to leave when I purposely held his arm.

Khushi: You wont introduce your wife to your important guest?   

He clenches his jaw but doesnt bark at me.

Arnav: Since when did you start showing interest in my social contacts? You dont need to get into this. Stay here.

He shoved my arm and left with Aman. I clench my jaw. He cannot use his rights on me as a matter of convenience. I follow him.

Arnav gets in the lobby of this Pub where the Party is held. I see a woman in a dark Blue Saree talking over the phone but when she sees Arnav, she hangs up.

Arnav: AJ.. Whats so urgent that you barged in here?

Ohh. So she is "AJ".. I remember Daadi telling me about her. She is Arnav's business partner.
AJ comes to him and speaks in anger.
AJ: Arent you giving a lot many parties these days Arnav?
Arnav: None of your Business AJ. We do business together. Thats all.
AJ sighs in frustration.

AJ: I have somethings to talk with you. It's important. So not here.
Arnav looked at Aman.

Arnav: Drop Khushi back home.
Aman: I will.

Arnav and AJ then left the Pub. I am surprised. He left his own party and his wife, just like that? What so much important did he have with AJ to discuss? I am curious. There's a lot more hidden about my husband and his tie ups with these various people. I, being his wife feel the urge to know it, just out of curiousity.  I come out to that lobby just in the hope that I could follow them again but Aman stops me.

Aman: Where you going?
Khushi: Where has Arnav left?
Aman: Uhh.. He had some work.
Khushi: What work? I am here, he practically forced me to be here and he left?
Aman: I know.. But..
Khushi: Where is he gone? When is he coming back?
Aman: I have no clue.
Khushi: Dont lie.
Aman: Trust me on this. I am not lieing. He and AJ are out which means there must be something important. Business issues only I suppose. AJ is not very interested in getting into his personal affairs, I know..

Even if Aman said that, I didnt feel it that way. The glimpse of AJ and her ways of getting Arnav away from this party made me wonder if she was really sticking to the business issues or was she getting into Arnav's personal life. She looked like a controlled woman to me and very stern. Not someone who can be got easily along with. Obviously thats why Arnav and she are business partners.. Similar personalities.

Aman: I have been asked to get you back home.. Let me know when can we leave.
Khushi: Now..!!! I have no interest to be here as it is..
Aman: Food?

I dont really stop there. I walk out to the parking and Aman follows me.

**************

I reach home and I see my mobile phone which was in my purse since the time I had reached the Pub. I had few missed calls from Daadi. I hoped everything was alright there. I dialed her as soon as I freshened up.

Khushi: Daadi.. Sorry I missed your calls.
Daadi: Where were you Khushi? Working late?
Khushi: No.. I was attending your Grandson's party.. Just returned back home.
Daadi: Ohh. I am so happy that you have started mingling with him and his lifestyle Khushi. Just like a true wife should do.

I sigh. How will I explain to Daadi that her Grandson literally forced me to be a part of it. I wasnt even a pinch interested otherwise.

Daadi: Okay I called you because tomorrow is Karwa Chauth. I was wondering if you will keep fast for your husband.

I am stuck now. Karwa chauth.. ReallY? It had to come at this odd time of my life when I wasnt sure about my future in this marriage? I am speechless.

Daadi: Khushi? Are you there?

I press my forehead sitting on the recliner, thinking what to reply.

Khushi: Daadi.. Is it that necessary for me to keep this fast? I Mean.. I am still not sure if..
Daadi: I know.. But Khushi whatever you decide in the coming days we all will accept it for sure. But thats in the future. Tomorrow you will still be his wife. But if you dont like doing it then..
Khushi: I will keep it .. (I decide. I dont want to hurt Daadi's sentiments related to all this)
Daadi: It's not a compulsion..
Khushi: I know. But seriously, I will keep it. What will I have to do ? I have no clue about it.
Daadi sounded happy that I accepted to perform this.

Daadi: I will guide you. And I will ask Amrita to send the Sargi to you in the morning.. It includes Saree, fruits, dry fruits, Accessories, Sindoor and much more.
Khushi: Amrita Aunty will send it? I doubt she will like sending me anything.
Daadi: Otherwise I will send it on my own. You just get up early morning before sunrise and eat enough.
Khushi: Yes. I will.

We talk for some more time and then I disconnect. I am still wondering why isnt Arnav back home. I shouldnt be waiting for him but there is still a little curiousity in my mind what was so important going on between him and AJ.. Firstly, was AJ keeping her hands off Arnav? I cant say anything. I somehow dont trust Arnav when it comes to this side. I lie down on the bed, hoping I will wake up when he comes back late night.

****************

AJ and Arnav drove to a secluded area where they could talk without any disruptions. Arnav had already guessed why she was so hyper. He was waiting for this argument still, so that at the end, it turns in for his own benefit.

AJ: For the next Fashion Event, you gave the contract to Jashn?
Arnav: I did.
AJ: They were the higgest Bidders Arnav. Why Jashn then? Or should I say it was only because you wanted to keep Khushi around you?
Arnav Smirked.

Arnav: You know the answers, you still like to hear them from me always. Yes I knew they were among the higgest bidders this time and I still gave them the contract because of Khushi.
AJ fumed. She was already guessing Arnav's intentions.

Arnav: If she stays close to me, I can keep her away from the truth of her relationship with SG.
AJ: You didnt consult with me even once on this?
Arnav: What was the necessity? And Event organisation handling has always been my part. You never look at them ever.
AJ: Fine.. But if she screws my Event
Arnav: OUR Event( he stressed on the word "OUR") She wont fail it. I have seen her work and also got some inner views from Prashant who is co-ordinating directly with her. She is handling it well.
AJ: We will see that in the coming days. Tell me one thing Arnav.. Are you changing sides these days? I have made you enough clear that I dont want that woman anywhere near me or my father.
Arnav: Keep a tab on your father first. Because he is the one trying to re-build relationships with her. And dont teach me what I have to do. SG has suddenly grown immense love for his out of wedlock daughter. He is poking his nose in my personal life by ending up in my house, in Khushi's presence, without my permission. He is talking to Viraj to know what past he and Khushi carried. He is the one who is starting everything from his end AJ.. Stop him.. Or else I will have to end my word with you and you very well know my anger. It wont be long till Khushi tries to link the dots and questions me, and I, in anger, end up telling her who her father is? I am sure you would not want that, do you?

AJ was raged at that thought. She pushed open the car door and got down to breathe some air. Arnav got down too and came to her.

Arnav: I am the only one who knows this truth until now. And very soon it will be out in the media. Your father might not prestige his political career before his daughter's love but you do. You dont like anyone else salvaging on whats yours.
AJ: STOP!! ( she angrily blurted)..
Arnav smirked again. Things were truly under his control. He never thought he would be able to handle both AJ and SG  so well if Khushi comes back to India and starts staying with him.

AJ: What do you want me to do?
Arnav: Hmm.. ( he pretended to think)

He took a step towards AJ and then looked at her calmly.

Arnav: SG is delaying my Land deal approval. Get it done from him. I will ensure things remain wrapped for Khushi.
AJ: That land deal costs millions Arnav. And you arent ready to pay any share to his sub-ordinates through whom he will have to pass that deal. How will that work?
Arnav shrugged his shoulders.

Arnav: Thats his concern. I am not paying anything for that. I am sure you can convince him for this charity AJ..
AJ looked at him with little anger and frustration. He has always been mean but if it hadnt been for her good, she would never end up dealing anything with Arnav Singh Raizada ever.

AJ: Okay. Get me back home. Tomorrow evening the land deal will be signed and approved at your table.
He was happy. The Chord had striked at the right place. He opened the car door for her to get in and they drove back from that place.


****************

Morning

I hear the noise of the closet door which wakes me up from my sleep. I rub my eyes and see towards it. Arnav is all ready in his three-piece suit , but searching for his Tie. I get up.

Khushi: When did u come home?

He turns and sees me. I am still trying to adjust my eyes to the morning light.

Arnav: When you were snoring loud and clear ( he replied with little smile on his face)

I have never seen him smiling. I feel like he has got some special reason for it. He pulls out a matching tie and comes to me. I stand on my feet now looking for my slippers. He encircles the tie around me and pulls me to him. I stumble and hold his chest for support.

Arnav: Your lips had parted.. ( he adds gazing at my lips )

I have no clue what he was talking about. Okay hold on.. May be he was describing my state when he came back home last night.

Arnav: Your kurta was quite up from its normal heights.
Khushi (struggling under his hold): Stop it.
Arnav: (Smirking again): Actually that shouldnt be your concern. You should ask me where I Slept?

Now his talk had started bothering me. Our sleeping arrangements were defined. I always took the couch and he took the bed since we started sharing the room. But last night I dozed off on the bed, so where did he end up? I immediately move my head towards the bed. His side of the bed looks crumpled. Means he slept next to me.. Damn!!

Arnav: ( looking at me): Yup.. Right guess. We slept together.. After a long long time..
Khushi: What did you do?
Arnav was taking his own sweet time to answer. Though I would have known had he touched me but I wanted to re-confirm.

Arnav: Sleep was all I needed last night.. But my hormones are active now.. If you interested.. ( he tried placing a kiss on my neck and I pushed him away with force)
Khushi: dont touch me.. ( I reply angrily)

He stretches his arm in air as if accepting my orders. I walk back to the dressing table and realise that I had missed waking up early for eating. Today was Karwa Chauth and I will have to fast the whole day for this man. He gets some call and he leaves out while I keep thinking how best I could make my day today.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 30

As its Karwa Chauth today and I am been strictly warned not to even drink water, I am abiding by its rules. Though I have no feelings for my husband, I am still sticking to these rituals for the sake of Daadi. I dont want to hurt her. I know she is just expecting some miracle to happen and want to see me and Arnav reconcile. Arnav comes down all dressed in formals, as he was earlier too, and sits at the Dinning Table, waiting for the breakfast. I send the maid out with his Pancakes and I follow her with the Orange juice. The maid serves his plate and leaves. I keep the glass on the table for him to take and plan to leave too but he catches my arm.

Arnav: Where is your plate?

I widen my eyes.
Khushi: Since when did you start paying attention on my meals?

He doesnt answer that but he pulls me and I land on his lap. I scrouch my eyebrows in anger for his actions.

Arnav: Not my fault. If you give such crooked replies, I should react the same way, shouldnt I?

He tries to feed me the Orange Juice but I push his arm away .

Khushi: I cant drink this.
Arnav: Why? Have you specially made this for me ? ( he tried to smell the juice and then met my eyes) Poisoned it ?

I am angered. I get up from his lap.
Khushi: If I had to poison your food, I would have done that long ago. If you still are suspicious of this breakfast then dont eat it.

I leave back to our bedroom to get shower while I do hear the cuttlery sound which means he was eating it. A man like him can really have no sense how to talk with his wife.

***************

I am at the Venue where the AR fashion Show was going to be organised in few weeks. I have a special crew from Jashn assigned to design and manage this event with me. I am looking at the Ceiling lights.

Khushi: Amol..
I scream at the Lightman who is standing on the ladder to fix the lights. He looks at me down.
Khushi: Move that light string to your left. It's blocking the CCTV camera's there.
Amol nods and works on my instructions. I turn to the other area when suddenly a helper of my unit hands me an assorted chocolates box.

Khushi: What is this Kishan?
Kishan: Madam.. It has come from AR Fashion House for you.
I take it from him. Kishan leaves. I wonder who sent it and why? They are my favourite chocolates. I have always had a thing for Chocolates. I do keep a few in my purse too and whenever I am stressed out, the first thing I do is pop one in my mouth. But today I cant even think of them as I am fasting. I see a note on the side of the box.

"Since you didnt eat anything in the morning"

Its signed as ASR at the end of this note. I take a deep sigh. So my husband sent it for me. Wow!! What a lovely effort but by a wrong man. His every gift to me is like a bribe to do something in his favour. I keep the box aside as my cellphone beeps. It's his message again.

"They are Custom made chocolates if you have noticed. With extra nuts and Caramel"

Really? I open the wrapper of one of them and indeed he is right. They were custom made. I respond back to his message.

"You wasted your efforts. I cant eat them today"

I lock my phone screen and the next moment I hear his voice from behind me.

"Why?"

I turn around. He is standing few steps away looking suspiciously at me.

Khushi: ( let a sigh of disbelief): Dont tell me you personally came here to make me eat them.
He reaches me in next few strides.
Arnav: Why wont you eat them today? (he wants to know my reply, not any other bulshit I ask)

I feel the urge to tell him that it's Karwa Chauth and I am fasting for him, but I know how he will react. He has no emotions linked to these rituals. He will shrug this thought off like a bee on his shoulder. But he surprises me by his next question.

Arnav: You fasting for me?

His eyes reflect an unknown spark of appreciation which I notice but avoid.

Khushi: Yes I am fasting. But dont relate it with any positive happenings between us. Meri Majboori hai. ( I am helpless)
That glint of appraise in his eyes turns out bitter and he smirks at me widely.
Arnav: Of course.. How can just one slap to Viraj be enough to change our relationship dynamics, isnt it?

His bitterness was quite reflected in his tone and the choice of words. But why will I accept anything that he throws at me?

Khushi ( angrily): Thats right. Because if one slap was enough to wipe off the bitterness, I would have slapped you instead, to wipe the pain which I am suffering from,  because of you.
Arnav clenched his jaw in anger. He could not bear that thought of getting slapped by me.

Arnav: Bahut bol diya Khushi.. If it had been any other woman instead, I would have .. ( he gritted his teeth not badmouth further)

I somehow feel scared for making him so angry. I should have kept my words in my mouth at least today as he is the same person I am fasting for. He leaves from there before I could even think of calling him back and apolozise. I know what he would plan next. He wont come soon to break my fast, or may be he wont even turn up till next morning. Thats the only punishment he can give me for speaking so arrogantly with him.

*****************

After having the argument with Khushi, Arnav was back to work. His mood was off and everyone who had any type of conversation with him today , did realise it. He kept throwing orders at his staff and they had to abide by it, no matter what. How dare Khushi speak like this to him? She has got wings these days and she was flying high. He will have to do something to keep her low on the ground and under limits. He was trying to read the contents of some email when Aman knocked the cabin door and entered in.

Aman: You called me Boss?
Arnav: Did AJ send the file?
Aman: You mean the Land deal file which is pending SG's approval? ( he paused and then responded).. No not yet. In fact even AJ is not at work yet. She had given a call earlier and informed Swetlana ( AJ's secretary ) that she will be late today.

Arnav leaned back on his chair. He kind of knew what might have delayed her. She must have gone to SG to convince him for the land deal approval. Doesnt matter if she is late, but she better keep her words.

*****************

Gupta House

Shashi Gupta was pacing around in the living room, with his secretary standing at the corner of the room, giving Shashi and his daughter Anjali Jha some privacy to talk. Shashi looked at the file and then at Anjali.

Shashi: I have rejected this file twice.
Anjali: I know that but I still have hope you will agree.
Shashi: Anjali. Things have changed now. I am not favouring Arnav anymore.
Anjali: He is my business partner. ( she took a pause and then angrily added more) And he is also your Son in law. When you are so worried for your other daughter these days, then why not think of her husband's profit too?

Shashi looked at her with surprise.

Anjali: Arnav told me you had been to his home. You met her, didnt you ?
Shashi didnt reply.
Anjali: You had promised me Paapa. She will never come between us.. Then why? (her anger was rising)
Shashi: Anjali. Calm down.. ( he made her sit on the couch and then wiped the tears from the corner of her eyes).. I know I had promised you but that was when I thought Khushi is happy wherever she is. Now, I have a feeling she is not happy in her marriage, which means, I will have to intervene and ensure Arnav is not hurting her in any way.
Anjali: No Paapa.. You wont do anything for her. It's her life.. She is an adult now and she will learn how to set things right in her life. Her mother never needed you to look after them so you should respect that forever.

Shashi knew it was Garima's decision of not needing any kind of support from him, but now Garima or her mother Devyani were not alive and all that Khushi had now as her family was Arnav Singh Raizada. If that same man doesnt treat her well, who else will she get help from?

Shashi: Arnav was never in my good books right from the start. I would have never let the marriage happen had I been here in India that time. But anyways, now I cannot sit here and relax if someone is doing injustice to my daughter ..
Anjali was totally mad hearing that.
Anjali ( getting up from the couch): You have already done enough injustice on my mother by getting another woman in your life. My mother was helpless because she was madly in love with you. So she made adjustments and still stayed with you until her last breathe. But I am not going to repeat that. I will not let anyone else snatch my rights, my father, from me.

She took the papers of the Land deal and walked out of the room . Shashi kept on calling her back but she didnt give a second thought to it.

*****************

It's half past 6, I am back home from work. I am so exhausted. Today I spent most of the time doing the field work. Prashant didnt get time even for having Lunch and likewise even I was so mucn engrossed in checking the lights and Curtains for the Ramp, that at the end of the day I had no energy left even to get back to my car. I sit on the Couch closing my eyes, leaning my head back, for some seconds. Thats when my phone rings, it's daadi.

Khushi: Jee Daadi.
Daadi: Khushi.. Have you returned back home?
Khushi: Hmm. ( I can hardly speak, I am that tired)
Daadi: You must be very hungry,  but the moon will be in the sky within two hours. You get ready by then and haan, decorate the Puja thali like I told you. Do you want me to come there and help you?
Khushi: No Daadi, you dont need to stress yourself so much. And Amrita Aunty will need you there. I will handle it all here.
Daadi: Okay. Call me if you need help. Is Arnav back home?
Khushi: No.. ( I suddenly remember how we fought at the event location today)
Daadi: How can he be so irresponsible? I will call him and ask him to come straight home, avoiding all next schedules.
Khushi: No Daadi. He will come anytime. I will call him myself if he doesnt come back soon. You dont worry.

I tried to convince Daadi just to avoid another argument between my husband and her. After Daadi's call, I do regain some strength to start getting ready. This is my first Karwa Chauth and keeping all the bitterness aside, she will do this Puja with all her heart.

*****************

AR Office

Aman: ASR.. There is nothing important here . I suppose you should leave now. Khushi will be waiting for you.. ( he insisted)
Arnav: (raising his chin to meet Aman's eyes): She told you that Aman?
Aman was quiet.
Arnav: Since when did you start being her lawyer? No one is going to pay you for that, so you better do what I tell you to.
Aman: ASR.. It's her first Karwa Chauth.. She must be hungry from the whole day and..
Arnav: Get out!!

He was not very keen in listening to any explanations regarding Khushi's state of mind for the Karwa Chauth. He never believed in rituals like this but when Daadi called him up today morning to inform that Khushi will be keeping the Karwa Chauth for him, he felt little responsible for Khushi. A woman who was doing such a big favour of fasting for a man's long life, should get some liberty and attention. Considering the same, he had purposely gone to the Event location with her favourite customized chocolates, just to check if she was really fasting or not. But then her replies and then those bitter statements she made ,killed his efforts. He will not go home tonight, at any cost. Let her stay hungry for as long as she wishes. He knew she will wait for him for sometime and in anger might even eat her dinner and ignore all the other formalities that she planned to do in the name of rituals. So be it!!!

His phone rang. It was half past 7. It was Khushi's call and he answered it after few rings.

Arnav: Hello.
Khushi: What time you coming home? Daadi has been calling me since 06:00 to know..
Arnav didnt respond..
Khushi: Look Arnav.. I too dont want to get into all this but ..
Arnav was more raged. She was again going to argue on the same thing
Arnav (interrupting): Go to Hell!!

Saying that he disconnected his phone and turned it Off. He did not want Daadi to call and bug him after this.

Arnav kept looking at the clock as it ticked .. 08:00.. The moon was just visible from his own desk now.. Should he go home? No.. That woman didnt care.. She will never care.. He kept typing again on his laptop.. The clock ticked 09:00 and he had to show a lot of self control not to leave for home..

It was almost 11:00 pm now.. The Moon was fully seen in the sky from past 3 hours and Arnav was just looking at the clock. He couldnt control himself any longer. He picked his car keys and drove back home.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 31

Arnav Singh Raizada drove speedily towards his house. He didnt know what made him so worried for Khushi. He was aware that she was fasting for him, so what if she gives any damn excuses of doing it only for Daadi? She is not a woman who can easily do things for others honors and respect. This mere thought of Khushi fasting for him, the whole day, without even having a drop of water, created a havoc to his senses. No other woman even dared to do it for him. Neither he expected it from anyone. And the least expectation he ever had from any woman to do this kind of stuff for him, was Khushi. SHe was some days back heading for a Divorce. Even though that matter was still somewhere floating in the air, she still fasted for him? Why? Why to undertake so much of pain for a man who gives her nothing in return?

He applied the brakes of his car once he reached home and then he got down. It was already 11:40pm. He entered the house calling out for the maid. She came running to him.

Arnav: Where is Khushi ?
Maid: She must be in her room. She didnt come down since long..

He walked to the bedroom but she was not there. He looked for her in the Guest room, but to no luck. Where the hell was she? He tried calling her number but she didnt pick the call. This frustrated him even more. But that frustration suddenly changed to worry. He thought something for a while and then rushed to the Terrace. This is the only place he can expect her to be as it was Karwa Chauth. He reached there and within next second, he saw Khushi unconscious on the floor. Blood gushed in his veins like never before. He held her head on his lap and then patted her cheeks.

Arnav: Khushi? Get up..

She didnt move. She was not cold though her face was pale due to the fasting. He quickly sprinkled water drops on her face and she opened her eyes weakly. He made her drink the water. She was half sitting on the floor now. She gulped the water and then murmured..

Khushi: Sweet.. ( she tried reaching her hand to the plate)
He realised she must be hungry and also sweet is the best medicine for anyone who is feeling dizzy. He made her eat a small bite of ladoo. She ate it and then opened her eyes wide.
Khushi: Thanks..!!
Arnav: Uhh? (he asked in surprise seeing her tone changing to normal)
Khushi got up from the floor and then dusted her palms and Lehnga.. Arnav stood up too. She looked very normal, as if , nothing happened.. Was this all a trap? His eyes raged fire and she read that easily.

Khushi: Yes you got it right Mr Arnav Singh Raizada.. I just trapped you into all this so that you break my fast.. How was my acting?

Arnav gritted his teeth.

Khushi: I am sorry for doing this.. But you left me no choice. Do you remember what you told me when I called you to ask when you coming back home? ( her tone became rough).. You said "GO TO HELL"!! Is this what a wife deserve after fasting the whole day for her husband's long life?

Arnav kept staring at her in anger.

Khushi: So I decided. I will teach you a better lesson so that next time you show some respect towards me and such important rituals.!! I faked being unconscious after seeing your car getting parked. I knew you wouldnt show any interest to break my fast , just like that, without throwing some more taunting words at me.. !!

She picked one more ladoo from the plate and started eating it.. The moment he stepped towards her in anger, she immediately showed him the ladoo..

Khushi: You want one?
Arnav clenched his jaw.
Khushi (smiling): I guess no.. You cant eat sweets... Right? No problem.. I have made your mood enough sour to balance your diabetes.. Thanks for coming before 12:00 though or else I was as it is going to break the fast myself. Now if you excuse me, I will get down and eat my dinner.

She moved across him and was about to reach the Terrace door when he held her arm and whirled her around, making Khushi land on his hard chest. She was locked in an embrace with him, between his arms and body..

Arnav: What a wasted act that was. You again amazed me Khushi.. Brilliant performance.. But you used it at a wrong time. For some odd reason, I couldnt hold myself up from coming back home to break your damn fast..

Khushi, who had been struggling till now suddenly became still and met his eyes.

Arnav: I felt pity for a woman who was taking so much pain for an arrogant jerk like me.. Though I admire your acting skills,  I am somewhere tempted to think how long have you been acting like this to get people's attention on you ?
Khushi felt agitated.
Khushi: What the hell do you mean?
Arnav: Making Daadi fall for your goodness and propose you for her grandson was that on purpose too?
Khushi was shocked when he accused her for that.
Arnav: Probably you wanted to make Viraj come back to you feeling jealous.. That didnt happen.. And you ended up marrying me. Is that right?
Khushi was so tempted to slap on his cheek but she didnt.. Not this day at least. But she pushed him away with a force.

Khushi: I had promised myself never to give you any clarification about me and Viraj.. Because I wanted you to know it yourself considering how genius you are in judging people. But I cant take your heartless accusitions any more.. Have I ever asked you how many girl friends you had before marrying me? Have I ever tried to know whom you dated after I left to San Fransisco? Did I ask you what was a women's dress doing in the closet of your Guest room in my absence? I didnt.. Not because I trust you Arnav.. It's because somewhere in my mind I have decided to ignore it if you had given a chance to this marriage of ours, promising me that all that past will never repeat. But it never happened.. So when you are so much secretive about yourself, why should I be an open book and let you read all my life pages?

Before she could say anything further, he interrupted her.

Arnav: I had 3 girl friends before our marriage.. None serious.. I never dated anyone after you left to San Fransisco. .And that dress which you might have seen in the Guest room is tanvi's who had stayed here in the house one night, but in my absence.. Those are my answers...

Khushi was stunned. He cleared her queries so instantly.. With utmost intensity in his eyes and tone.

Arnav: This is how you have to shut people's mouth, giving them the answers they need, at the right time. From the time we got married, you never gave me a reason to trust you, neither we spent enough time to sort our trust issues. In such instances, the only option that remains between us is to speak out each other's suspicions and clear it off rather than giving more air to the fire. If for a man like me it is was so easy to clear your doubts, I dont think for a self confident woman like you it should be that difficult.

His matured talks almost shocked Khushi. She felt her behaviour childish now before his state of mind. Arnav saw her holding the side pillar to stand strong on her feet. She had probably got enough surprises from him. Arnav screamed out for the maid who came running on the Terrace at his service.

Arnav (looking at Khushi): Madam ko khaana khilao.. ( Serve Dinner to Madam)

The maid nodded looking down as Arnav left downstairs. Khushi was blown away by his responses. Whether he said the truth or were they all a lie is a different question. She didnt wanted to judge that now. Right now what was important to her was that he had answered and that too without she forcing for those replies.. He was right. They never stayed together for long to sort their trust issues. Hiding her past affair from him was her decision and during their marriage she had thought of letting him know about it if necessary but that time never arrived. Things got complicated between them and she eloped to San Fransico giving up on her relationship. But now that she knows he is aware of Viraj and her past, she should be telling him all about it rather than letting him frame stories on his own. He deserves to know it..

Arnav came back to his bedroom and went to sleep. He was in no mood of conversing with her again. She had tried to show her upper hand by faking that act of being unconscious. He had never expected her to be so cunning in getting her way with him. But in all this, he was also juggling to find answers to his own over growing concern towards Khushi. Why did he answer her suspicions? Why couldnt he avoid coming here to break her fast? Why did his heart beats skipped seeing her unconscious on floor? Was she getting into his mind?

*******************

The next morning when Arnav woke up, he saw Khushi sleeping on the Couch, like always, struggling with the Duvet which had stuck in her legs, to cover her upper half of the body. It was chilling cold this morning plus the AC was adding more to her shivers. Arnav switched off the AC to ease her down. She stopped attempting to pull the Duvet and slept peacefully after that. For Arnav, it was a very strange feeling, to care for someone. He tried to stable his mind from thinking about her and then hurried in the bathroom. It had been ages since he had cared for someone after Arushi.. She was the only one who got the privilege of getting his attention to this extent. By this, he remembered that he was going to meet Arushi today afternoon for lunch. This means he will have to finish all his work soon so that he can give Arushi his maximum time.

*******************

By the time I woke up, Arnav was gone to work. His words about last night were still haunting my mind. Something felt different from the usual. For the first time we had a meaningful conversation , that too in the middle of an argument. I try to think wise now. This might be just a small change but it is still a needed one. I dress up for work and coincidently I have to meet Prashant first at AR office today to discuss the Event details. I might not be prepared mentally to meet Arnav again but I am still eager to go there.

When I reach office, I see him busy with back to back client meetings. He has noticed me here but he chooses to ignore any kind of talk, face to face. My work with Prashant continues. I see Aman calling up at Arnav's cabin and telling him that AJ is onway to Office . She has something to talk urgently about. That name always gave me a negative feeling, I dont know why? I keep my eyes and mind tuned to my work. I dont see a need to interfere in Arnav's business. He is too good to handle it himself.

It's lunch hours and I am thinking what best I can eat to fill my stomach, when suddenly I get Arnav's call on my mobile phone. I am little surprised but answer the call in no time.

Arnav:Khushi..  I need a favour.
Khushi:Excuse me? Arnav Singh Raizada is asking a favour? And that too from me?
Arnav: Stop fussing and listen to me ( he replied sternly)
Khushi: ( sighed): Hmm.. What is it?
Arnav: Me and Arushi had plans for lunch today afternoon. But looks like my meeting is going to extend. Arushi will be reaching the restaurant anytime. Give her company until I come.

That was such a bad idea.

Khushi: No.. Me and Arushi are not that good with each other.
Arnav: Take my word.. She wont misbehave. She knows what importance you carry in my life.

I gulp. Why did he say that? Was I important to him?
Arnav: I will text you the Hotel address. Take my car and driver.
Khushi: Wait.. I ( he dropped the call)

I wanted to deny but seemed like I had no choice. Besides the Hotel he wanted me to go was one of my favourite. It served the best Italian food and right I would love to have it. I tell Prashant about my Lunch schedule and then Arnav's driver drops me to the Hotel. I am been guided to the table which is reserved on Arnav's name. Arushi has just arrived and she is sitting already, waiting for Arnav. The moment she sees me instead, her face becomes pale.

Arushi: You? Where is ASR? ( She tries looking past me)
Khushi: Uhh. He will be slightly late..
Arushi: Late? Is that why he sent you? Doesnt he know I dont need a baby sitter?
Khushi (sitting opposite to her): I wanted to tell him exactly the same. But you know he always has a last say, everytime. I had no choice.. So do you. Shall we order something?
Arushi sighed in frustration and then opened the Menu card. I like this little dominance I showed over Arushi Raizada. It's like I took my sweet revenge on this girl which I always intended to, seeing her annoyance towards me.

We quickly place the order. She is about to order a mocktail but I interrupt.

Khushi: No mocktails..Please. .
Arushi: What? why?
Khushi: It has some content of Alcohol and you are not 18 yet.
Arushi frowns at me.
Khushi: I know your ASR would also do the same. So dont argue with me now..

We order two soft drinks finally. Arushi keeps observing me silently.

Arushi: He has made you like him.. Commanding!!!

I dont react to that. Isnt it good to be considered as Commanding ? The Lunch is served and we immediately start eating without wasting time. That shows we both are equally hungry.

Arushi: You fasted for him? On Karwa Chauth ?

I stop eating and look at her. Was it that obvious?
Arushi: I overhead Daadi talking to you over the phone. Thats how I got to know.
Khushi: Yes.. I did..
I dont describe it more. I dont want to land into any kind of question-answer round with her.
Arushi: ASR must have been bewildered. Right? Actually no one has done all this for him? He gets vulnerable easily when someone shows this kind of care towards him..

I lose my appetite hearing this. Is this why he came to break my fast last night?

Khushi: You know him totally, dont you?
Arushi:  (nodding in denial): I dont.. He is the one who knows in and out about me.. I wish there is someone out there who understands him like that..

Arushi's wish evokes lot many sentiments in my heart for Arnav Singh Raizada..I gulp my thoughts and continue eating.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 32

Arnav Singh Raizada was in his cabin rolling the paper weight on his desk, thinking intensely about Khushi. There was a strong attraction he felt for her these days, and that grew even more when he learned that she fasted for him. He should keep a grip on this attraction or else he might land up hurting that woman, someday. But, did he care if she is hurt? He took a deep breathe and leaned behind on his chair, closing his eyes briefly. What was this unknown, unstable feeling he got for her? If she doesnt love Viraj anymore, why isnt she coming back to her husband? Why doesnt she need him to support her in her emotional times? But again, was he good enough to give that emotional support to her? He never realized it himself as Arushi was the only one who was so close to his heart, no other woman. What if Khushi gives in to him, in the coming days? How should he react? This woman would make his mind go crazy one day if he keeps thinking about her so seriously.

The sound of the door knock got him out of his trance. Anjali Jha entered inside in frustration. Arnav composed all his thoughts and then paid attention to her.

Arnav: Where is the file?

AJ clenched her jaw and sat on the couch, picking up the receiver and ordering for a strong coffee.

Anjali: He is not going to sign it. ( she replied pressing her forehead)
Arnav was not happy to know it. He came to her and sat opposite on the couch.
Arnav: You know what the consequences can be if you dont get those papers signed for me AJ..

AJ was furious.
Anjali: Dont Blackmail me Arnav..

Arnav: Watch your tone AJ(he warned her to be polite)
AJ controlled her anger and then explained Arnav the situation.

Anjali: Dad is doubting something wrong between you and Khushi. Thus, he doesnt want to favour you anymore. All thanks to your wife's foolish act of slapping that Viraj which has got the whole past of Viraj-Khushi before Dad's eyes and now he sympathizes her. You know what? I just hate her.. I wish.. I wish to strangle her someday for messing with my life like this..

Arnav: ENOUGH!! ( he snarled)
Anjali jerked hearing that tone and pitch from him. She met his red eyes.
Arnav: Not one word against her!!
Anjali's jaw dropped.

Anjali: What is she doing to you both Arnav? My father's concern for her is understood. But what is wrong with you? Since when did you start caring what kind of words I use against her?

Arnav broke the contact of their eyes and turned around. For the first time in his life, he was short of words.
Anjali got up. She could sense something going on in Arnav's mind related to Khushi and if it had anything to do with Love and respect for her, then it would be the end for her empire!! Both personally and professionally.

Anjali: I will try to convince Dad again today for the signatures. ( she placed her arm on Arnav's shoulder)

Arnav shrugged it off and met her eyes again.

Arnav: You better.
He walked back to his desk, picked his car keys and was off the cabin. He knew Arushi and Khushi will be waiting for him in the hotel.

******************

Hotel

Arushi checked the watch. We had just started eating and I can understand she wanted her brother to come here as soon as possible. She doesnt like me much and vice versa. Suddenly I hear Arnav's voice apologizing to Arushi. We stop eating to look in the direction of that voice. Arnav Singh Raizada is here. He hurries to the table and takes off his coat, placing it aside.

Arnav: Aru.. Pardon my delay.. I was stuck up ..

He sits next to me and the next instant, he kisses my cheek. My eyes widen and I give him a shocked stare.

Arnav: Thanks for accompanying Arushi till then.
He has very clearly noticed the shock on my face but he keeps that topic low and concentrates back on Arushi.
Arushi: She wasnt a bad company ASR.. We were good. !!

Now that praise from Arushi surprises me all the more. What is wrong with this Brother- Sister? They always manage to confuse me by their actions and reactions.. I touch my cheek to wipe off that wetness his lips had created. He smirks observing me from the corner of his eyes and then quickly places the order for himself. I recall why he might have kissed. He wanted to show Arushi that we are a normal couple. The way he respects me before her is just too dreamy to even imagine. We all three continue eating. I keep quiet letting Arushi and Arnav to converse. This is the first time I am actually witnessing their kind of talks. He hears almost everything that his teenage sister has to share about.

Arushi: I am getting new pimples.. I hate them.. They are yuck!! ( she complained touching one of the pimple on her left cheek)

Arnav: Dont touch it..

Arushi: (taking her finger off that pimple): I need to see a dermatologist. But Mom is too busy to take me there.

Arnav: It's just a pimple Aru.. It wont harm and neither it will make you look less beautiful..

Arushi: I am already looking bad.  ( she complained again)
Arnav: Kick that guy who said that to you..
Arushi giggled. I also felt like laughing but I controlled and kept eating.
Arushi: (looking at Khushi): You have a very flawless skin Mrs Raizada..
I saw her and then smiled.

Arnav also didnt wait to admire the flawlessness on his wife's face. She was indeed beautiful.. Her skin glowed, no matter how much she tried to keep that glow hidden. His eyes lowered on her neck. She had a long slender neck..

Arushi: Do you use any special cream for your face?
Khushi: I hardly do make up. My mother had a clean, non-blemished skin. I inherited hers.
Arushi: Then I can imgaine why I am getting these pimples. My mom has tried all the beauty products in this world. She is so make up freak.
Arnav: Aru.. She is your mother, show some respect..

I kind of like this nature in Arnav Singh Raizada. He hates his step mother but he doesnt want Arushi to disrespect her. Whatever hatred and grudge he had on his parents, he wanted to keep it restricted to himself and not pass it on to his sister.

Arushi: Fine. .Sorry. But someone please think about my dermatologist first..
Arnav : I will ask Aman to fix an appointment for this weekend. Happy?

Arushi was contended but not fully.
Arushi :Would you accompany? If you dont have any plans.
Arnav: ( turned to Khushi and then looked back at his sister): One of us would accompany you.

Arnav didnt made any false commitments where his sister was concerned. Even I didnt deny. I was fine to take Arushi there. I somehow had started creating a space in my heart for this girl. She was not that bad as I considered her to be. May be I was creating impressions too fast. We finished the dinner and then were back in the car to drop Arushi. She was sitting behind and I was at the front seat with Arnav who drove the car. Things had slowly started to change between us, I could feel that. Staying with him, I had started learning about him. And my initial impression about Arnav was slowly turning from worse to good. If I had faced his anger for not letting him know about my past, I had also seen his concern for me if I am in trouble. If I had felt his desperation in consummating our marriage, I had also experienced the distance he still respects between us and not forcing me to end up with him on bed. He might have been arrogant in allowing me work but now that I was doing that too, I had sensed his maturity in letting me do what I am happy doing. He never took opportunity of Daadi's absence in the house to overpower me. May be he was not exactly what I thought he was.

I close my eyes briefly to stable my thoughts. I should be telling Arnav about my past clearly. It's better that way than allowing the misunderstandings grow. I dont care if he believes me or not, but I have to do my part. We drop Arushi and none of us even think of getting inside the Raizada house. Arnav then drives back towards the Office where we both still have our respective work to finish. We step inside togther, my mind is insisting me to talk to him but of course not here. I dont want any kind of show happening here at our workplace.

Khushi: What time are you finishing today? ( I ask in a low tone looking at him)

He stops and looks at me as if I have asked him something he never expected.

Arnav: By 07:00. Why?
Khushi:I think we should talk.. At home of course.. So..
Arnav: Not at home.. Somewhere else.. ( he suggested)
Khushi: Where?

Arnav: I have a secret place.. Will go there..

I gulp as he mentions "SECRET PLACE". What sort of place can that be? I hope he is not thinking I am falling for his charms..
Khushi: No.. I ... I mean we can talk at home .. Why go out then?

Arnav: If the talk is about your past, I want to save myself from suffocation. So its better we choose some open yet reserved place where we can sort this and chuck it right there before returning home.

His suggestion seemed genuine now. He wants to chuck everything about my past ,after he knows it from me? And then? What was their next move? I shouldnt be thinking that now. Or else I wont be able to tell him in the first place.

Arnav: Done then!! Lets start at 07:00 from here..

I nod. He stares at my lips again for a brief moment. I dont know why he does that. What does just one stare there, give him? Damn!! He leaves and I get back to see Prashant who was handling my work in my absence.

*****************

07:30 pm

As decided, Arnav drove me to his so called Secret place. It was on a hill top. Much away from the city. When he first drove onto the Steep roads of the Hill, I felt scared. I fiddled with my own fingers looking outside, trying to find some known roads. He noticed that fearful expressions.

Arnav: I am not kidnapping you Khushi, relax..

I smile back at him and then somehow I do relax when we reach the top of that hill. It's a desserted place. No people around. .The cool breeze welcomes us as we both get down the car.

Khushi: SO this is it? Your Secret place?
Arnav nods. I start walking with him ahead.
Khushi: What makes it a SECRET place for you?
Arnav: Secrets arent to be told Khushi.. They die with you.

His tone makes me wonder when was the last time I had seen him so vulnerable? I am about to give up the thought that he might tell me the real history behind this place but he surprises me again. He utters the scariest thing for me to believe.

Arnav: ( looking straight ahead): When I was 12.. I had tried to suicide once..  From here..!!
I am terrified to hear that confession from him.. SUICIDE? A small child, 12 years old? He doesnt meet my eyes. He is lost in his own past..

Khushi: What had gone so wrong for a 12 year old, to take this decision of his life?

Arnav doesnt answer that. He infact comes out of his reverie and then faces me with some stern expressions.

Arnav: I am here to hear from you.. So go ahead..

His little hint about this place makes me shiver but then he was right. I have to finish what I planned to first.

Khushi: Viraj was a social worker when I met him first for resolving our Colony's water problems. His charm instantly caught my attention . He was very matured in his work and I was fiery too. Somehow our likes and dreams matched.. We started meeting outside..

I look at Arnav who wasnt really looking at me though. He had purposely chose to see elsewhere. But I know how difficult it might be for any man to know his girl's past. Because unlike his relationships before marriage, mine was serious.. I loved Viraj!! To digest that love his wife had for some other man, has to be difficult.!!!

Khushi: He... he proposed me .. And I had no reasons to deny.. We went around for few months until I came to know about Nani's sickness. She was in a hurry to get me married and she had no idea about Viraj yet.. So when I told Viraj, he was taken aback ( my eyes became moist). He was entering the Politics and had no time to settle his personal life that time. He wanted more time, which I couldnt afford to give him before my Nani's wishes. If Politics was his priority, Nani was mine . We broke up. After a few months when Daadi came in our lives, and she proposed me for you, I wanted to deny but Nani was happy. She was waiting for someone to take my responsiblity behind her. I had to agree.. We got married.. The most difficult decision of my life..

My voice breaks while saying that. He looks at me finally.

Khushi: Your attempt to consummate our marriage on the first night, frightened me so much.. You were overdrunk.. I could see a dark future already.. You were always cold towards me.. I was confused what should be my first step towards this marriage to work? Telling you about my past, or trying to win your trust first..?

Somehow my tears dont support me. They start rolling down my cheeks.

Khushi: You left for your Business and Nani passed away. Viraj did come to see me that time. And yes he stayed that night ( I angrily confess).. But those pictures you got, have no truth.. I was weak but not so vulnerable that I could forget my marriage with you. Viraj and I never shared that type of closeness Arnav... Only if you can believe me..


Somehow I see the creases on his forehead easing down after my revealation.

Khushi: I have no idea why Viraj shared those pictures with you. In the first instance I dont even know who clicked those pictures? If Viraj wanted me back in his life, he would have used any other way but not defaming me like this by sending the pictures to you. Not that I believe him still completely. But I dont understand what will he get doing all this? Sometimes I feel there is someone else who wants us apart.

Arnav hears me patiently and my last statement has geared his senses too. His expressions reveal that he also believes I am right.

Khushi: (wiping her tears): Anyways..  Thats all the past I had to share with you. You want to ask me anything else? ( I try to make myself confident again.)


I dont want him to think I am going weak by all this revealtion. Why should I ? I had told him the truth, didnt fake anything. I had nothing to worry. By the time I think all this, I forget to realise he has reached me already. I look up at him.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 33

He tucked my hair strand behind the ear, which was hindering his gaze on my face. His eyes reflected a lot going inside his mind, if only, I had that ability to read them. In the next few minutes he even cupped my face with both his palms and gave a long ... long stare at my lips. When I saw him advancing them, the next instant, I moved back.

Khushi: Excuse me? What.. what were you doing?

He looked impatiently at me, gulping down the pain for being interrupted and then smirked.

Arnav: I was giving you a Proof (he said advancing to me again. I step back)
Khushi: Prooof? Of .. of what? (I look at his feet to see how quickly he was advancing towards me)

Arnav: (stepping again towards me): That I believe each and every word you confessed to me today.  ( he observes my feet while take a step behind, AGAIN)

I finally place my arms between us and then stop him.

Khushi: I dont need any Proof.. So please...

He exactly knew what I was saying. This was just not the right way to patch up our relationship. He inhales deep as if composing all his thoughts to be normal again and then steps away. I take this opportunity to get in the car again. He keeps thinking something while watching me and then gets in the car too. We drive back home..

***************

That night we have a very quiet dinner. He doesnt say a word, he is just busy thinking. I dont know which dots he was trying to connect in his mind and why? I doubt his problem solving ability, at least in relationships. He misses the most important step of being vocal and jumps to the next everytime in moving things forward. Just like he did today at the hill top. Instead of telling me he believes what I confessed, he wanted to prove it by kissing. Isnt that insane? Does he think I will be so easy to win ? Only because I dont want Viraj anymore? I am not for sale here.

After we are back in the bedroom and I move to the couch with my Pillow, to sleep, he stops me.

Arnav: You take the bed.
Khushi: I dont need your charity.

He gets little irritated by my constant denial towards everything these days.
Arnav: Where does Charity come here in sleeping on the bed?
Khushi: Only because now you know my past from my mouth, you dont need to do such favours for me. And sleeping on the Couch was my decision, from the start. I feel safe there.

He grits his teeth.
Arnav: Safe? From whom? Your own husband?
Khushi: Yes.. You may think so. ( I state to him and walk to the couch without any plans of argument)

I know he is not happy. I purposely lay down and close my eyes. This is a clear indication to him that I am not going to listen to his demands. He stares at me for few seconds and then walks out, at the poolside.

This has to be sorted. He had given Khushi a clean chit today and she was still not going to give him anything in return. Damm! He brushed his fingers in his hair and then removed his mobile phone from pocket to dial someone.

****************

Next Day - AR Office

Aman was taken back seeing the cold expressions on Arnav Singh Raizada's face as he looked blankly on his Laptop Screen as if there was nothing to read. Something was surely wrong with him, Aman thought and cleared his throat to get his Boss's attention.

Aman: Boss?
Arnav came out of his trance and then shut the screen, leaning his head back.
Arnav: Leave me alone Aman.
Aman: Sure, I will. But.. I am always here if you wish to talk, or need some help. ( he suggested and tried leaving)
Arnav: Stop!!

Aman turned behind.

Arnav: Have you ever been with a Woman before? ( he asked softly)
Aman was wondering whaat was that question about ? Since when did his Boss start showing interest in his Employee's personal life?
Aman: Uhh.. Yea.. Some years back.
Arnav: (getting up): Girl friend?
Aman blushed.
Aman: Yes.. But.. it didnt work. ( his face turned pale)
Arnav: She dumped you ?
Aman: No.. No.. She didnt.. We loved each other but she was not ready to go against her family . Her father was a retired army officer and you know how difficult it becomes to convince them . So she obeyed her family and married some guy which they looked for her.

Arnav was really not interested in his love life. But he had been trying to understand something else from Aman.

Arnav: Did you guys ever fight? When you were together, ofcourse.
Aman: Yes. Many times.
Arnav: Who was the cause of the fight?
Aman: Mostly she.. These women can never accept they did anything wrong. They think what they do is always right and needed. Si such silly fights are ought to happen.
Arnav: So she used to make it up to you?
Aman (sighed): Never.. If she doesnt think she is wrong, why would she come back to make up the relationship? I was the one who used to shrug all the argument and try fixing our bonding again.
Arnav: ( little more curious): How?
Aman was about to detail even that but suddenly he paused and looked at Arnav,

Aman: What is all this about? I am sure you are not someone who can spare time for such talks Boss.

Arnav took a minute to think if he has to tell Aman or not. But may be this man can help him.
Arnav: It's about Khushi.
Aman had guessed it somewhere when this conversation started.
Aman: What about her?
Arnav: I am unable to read her mind. She is with me but she doesnt want me near her. She wants to clear up her past, but she doesnt want me to put it back and move forward with her. I dont understand what exactly she implies by doing all this? Earlier she was atleast making her attempts in divorcing me, but now, she is not and even then she doesnt want me to bridge the gap between us..

This was the first time when Arnav Singh Raizada was even opening up his thoughts about Khushi and their marriage to someone.

Aman: Uhhh.. OKay.. I .. I wont say I understand it totally, but I can still help you..
Arnav : You can?
Aman: Yea.. Why not? But for free.. I dont need extra money for this Boss..
Arnav : And I dont use services for free. Charge me for whatever you advice Aman.
Aman: No.. I wont.. I dont find business in advising people for mending their relationships..

Arnav didnt understand his point but right now, he was the one in need, so Aman was his last option.

Arnav: Fine.. Go Ahead.. Tell me what should I do?
Aman: Before I start, let me ask you one more thing.. You too had experiences with other woman before this. So why do you need me?
Arnav: Wife.. and Flings.. Have to be dealt in a different way.. ( he answered )
Aman: Well.. Yes.. But..
Arnav: Aman, one more question and you are going to be out of this Cabin.. FOREVER!
Aman gulped.
Aman: Okay.. I wont. Let us come directly to a solution. Assuming Khushi Bhabhi is not a woman who could be impressed with money, you will have to try her way..
Arnav: And what is "HER WAY?"

Aman smiled brightly. He kind of felt proud to get this opportunity of taming Arnav SIngh Raizada..He explained the plan to Arnav slowly..

Arnav: Are you out of your mind? This might take ages Dammit!!
Aman : It wont.. Considering how tough Khushi Bhabhi is.. a slow approach is the best.
He had a point, Arnav thought.

Arnav: Fine..! I will see how to do this.. You may leave..
AMan: Okay..
Arnav: Aur haan. . I need to see a professional hacker..  Find someone and fix an appointment.
Aman: HAcker? ( he was confused) And why appointment? I can get that person here to see you.
Arnav :No.. I dont want any eyes to know I have been calling a Hacker in my cabin.. I have to deal this privately. .

Aman had no clue why Arnav needed a hacker but he still had to obey his Boss's orders. He agreed to find one soon and left the cabin.

****************

I was waiting at the Elevator of AR office to get to the 8th floor , where Prashant works. There were two elevators and a Private one too which was only meant for the Boss's and the other Board members of this Company. I was getting late.. Both the elevators suddenly halted at different floors and even though I kept pressing the button to get them down, none of them arrived.

Khushi: What is wrong with these elevators today?
Aman suddenly came for help.
Aman: It happens.. You have to wait for some time until the Liftman fixes the issue.
Khushi: I have to meet Prashant and leave for the Show venue. I dont have much time.
Aman ( faking a sigh): I understand.. Why dont you take the Private lift?
Khushi: Isnt it only for the Boss's?
Aman: So? You are the wife of the Chairman and Managing Director here. You can use it occassionally at least.
Khushi: No THanks.. ( I kept pressing the lift button again)
Aman: Fine.. Then wait or else take the stairs..

No. That was not a good idea to take stairs.. She will be exhausted climbing 8 floors. She cannot delay the meet as well with Prashant. So she was left with the only option which AMan suggested.  Without uttering anything, she made her way to the Private lift. Aman quickly picked his phone which had Arnav SIngh Raizada's call on hold till now.

Aman: She is on your way BOSS!! ( he replied and then disconnected the call)

This sounded bulshit to Arnav that he was playing such nasty tricks to get Khushi's attention on him. But.. Somehow he badly needed that to happen.!!

Khushi came to the lift which was about to close and immediately pressed the button to stop it. The lift door opened fully
and to her surprise found Arnav Singh Raizada, standing inside. She had no clue if this was just a coincidence.. She kept looking at him with shock and surprise if she should really get in or not.

Arnav: What? Bed share nahi sakti.. Lift toh kar sakti ho naa?  (What? You dont want to share the bed.. Sharing the Lift shouldnt be a problem)

Considering the urgency she had, she stepped inside and pressed the 6th floor button. Arnav's cabin was on the last, means 15th floor which was already pressed in. The lift started its course.. It had passed just the second floor when it stopped with a jerk. Khushi panicked but Arnav was aware why it happened. It was part of the plan which Aman suggested. The lights dimmed inside.

Khushi: What just happened? Why isnt the lift moving?
Arnav shrugged his shoulders as if he had no clue.
Khushi: Call the security. .
Arnav: Excuse me ?
Khushi: Yes.. Thats what people do when they get stuck up .. Call!!

Arnav gritted his teeth. She was ordering the Boss to do all this ? He moved away from the phone which was hung on one side of the lift wall. Seeing him not responding, Khushi made her way to the phone and picked the receiver. It didnt function.

Khushi; Hello? Heello? Anyone can hear us?

Arnav : It's dead Khushi.
Khushi couldnt believe this.
Khushi: Dead? How? Couldnt you get it serviced?
Arnav was all the more frustrated. He stepped towards her.
Arnav: Am I a liftman to get this serviced? There are people hired to do this job.
Khushi :Then fire those people because they havnt done their duty properly.
Arnav: (clenching his jaw): Dont teach me..
Khushi sighed. There comes his BIG FAT EGO..
Khushi: Fine..Lets Find some other way to deal with this..

The light dimmed more. They could hardly see each other. Khushi panicked more. SHe moved closer to him and he smirked.

Khushi: Why are the lights going out.. ? I feel .. I feel scared .. It's not good..

Arnav was expecting this but he wondered how a woman like her survived alone in California? May be the lights never go there, he thought.

Arnav: Hold me.. ( he said extending his arm)
Khushi gulped.. NO.. He would be the last man on earth she would take help and support from..
Arnav: Come on Khushi.. I wont bite.. Stop being so negative about me and come here.. ( he barked)
Khushi didnt move.. She infact went back.

Khushi: Get this damn lift working. .NOW!!
Arnav: WHAT ?
Khushi: Yes.. Call up anyone and make it work. .I .. am .. I am suffocating.. ( she held her throat)

Was it true? Or was she acting? May be she had the phobia of closed spaces.. He didnt realise it before. She was really feeling hard to breathe. Arnav fisted his fingers and punched the wall of the lift hard.. He should have checked it before planning all this with Aman. He dialed Aman .. luckily the network was there on his mobile phone.. In next 2 minutes the lift started its course again. Arnav came to Khushi and tried to hold her. She pushed him away the moment the door opened on 6th floor and she ran out..  So this plan was an utter flop!! He wont spare Aman..

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 34

Aman: What? She has Claustrophobia? Fear of closed spaces?
Arnav annoyingly looked at Aman who was equally surprised that his little plan turned out to be a disaster.

Arnav: Why couldnt you find that earlier Aman?
Aman :How am I supposed to know that? You are her husband, not me.
Arnav: Dont remind me how I relate to her. Now fix this blunder.
Aman noded.
Aman: I can fix.. But there is a first rule to every try..
Arnav: What do you mean by that? ( he asked furiously)
Aman: Stop being hyper on every situation. You ruin your own efforts otherwise.. ( he advised)
Arnav clenched his jaw. This wasnt fun anymore.. He was getting impatient to have that woman, like the way he desires, and here Aman was helping nowhere. Was it a wrong decision to include Aman in all this? He should have tried his own ways to get Khushi.

Aman : Okay look. .What I mean is .. Your anger can ruin everything.. You need to cool down. Like.. Take a deep breathe In.. ( Aman demonstrated how to do that ).. and now leave it .. like this ( he demonstrated again)
Arnav was only observing..
Aman: See ? The anger goes.. Just in a click. So now, everytime you are with her, use this technique if you get angry. Remember this Mantra always.. Okay ?

Arnav arched his eyebrows while staring at Aman who realised he should probably talk more sensible than this.

Aman: Fine. .coming to the point.. Do you really think she has fear of closed spaces? Dark spaces?

This was Arnav's concern too. Was she being genuine there or was she faking? Just like she did on the Karwachauth? He fisted his fingers.. If she faked all this just to escape from him, he wont tolerate that. "Lie" is the last thing he expects from her.

Aman: Okay never mind. Considering she has that fear, lets plan our second chance better than this. I have heard she likes Kids.
Arnav: ( little irritated): For God's sake, KIDS Aman? Is that your next plan?
Aman: Why not? What's your motive behind all this? Impress her, right?
Arnav: NO! ( he replied hastily).. I just want her to stop running from me. I want her to accept this marriage and me. How long do you think we can keep living such seperate lives?
Aman: I understand what you mean ASR.. But a woman doest think practically like us. They need some emotional touch as well in everything their man does for them. Trust me, when I have taken this job of closing the gap between you both, I surely will.

Arnav Singh Raizada had no much choice left. He accepted Aman's next plan and waited for the right time to implement it.

********************

Shashi Gupta was attending a Party meeting to discuss the shortcomings to be taken care of, for the upcoming elections. But even though his mind was needed in the discussions, he couldnt really concentrate much. He was thinking about his daughter, Khushi. All these years when he wanted to look after her, Garima's mother Devyani didnt let him do that. Devyani never liked her daughter Garima to have any feelings for him because he was already married and having a one year old daughter that time. His wife Nitya was a rough woman. Belonging from a rich family, she never had that interest in little household chores. She never cooked, their maids did it for them. It was an arranged marriage and obviously he had accepted his wife with full heart and mind, only until he saw her true colors. That woman never gave him the moral support and emotional strength which he wanted from his wife. She was busy in earning money by extending her father's business. Somehow he started feeling isolated and thats when he met Garima, the most humble and kind woman he ever met on earth. In the early days of his political career, she had been working for him and very soon they ended up falling in love for each other. Her mother Devyani tried to make Garima understand but Garima being totally in love with him and Vice versa, their bonding kept growing somehow, to this extent that one day she realised she was carrying his Love child. Everything fell apart for them. Not wanting to drop the child, Devyani had only one option left, take Garima out of this city for few months. They cannot stay here and keep getting hurt when people would question them who was this child's father? Shashi set up a house for them in a different city. Very soon the baby girl was born.. His political career was very high at that point. He was winning the elections. The baby was the real source of his happiness and thats how he suggested Garima to name her "Khushi". He gave their daughter his last name. But still none of them ever got to know he was the father. When they returned back to Delhi, Khushi was 4 years old. Neighbors were told Garima married someone in these span of four years and hence had a daughter now. But her husband passed away. The same was communicated to Khushi as well. And even when Shashi Gupta was right in the same city, Garima had to live the life of a widow for the society. It started bothering her to this extent that she fell sick. And in few years she passed away. That loss had tore Shashi's heart forever. He could not see his daughter leading the life of an Orphan and hence even agreed to accept being her father but Devyani had too much hatred for this man to let her grandchild be given under his custody. She kept Khushi away from him and never unleashed his true identity to her ever.

Shashi came out of his reverie as his Secretary shook him gently, informing him that the meeting was over. He got up and asked his driver to take the vehicle straight home. He was feeling uneasy. Just when the Car had halted at the Signal, he saw Khushi waiting for a Taxi. Shashi's heart melted seeing his daughter there. He asked the driver to stop the car at her feet.

*******************

I was surprised to see a WHite Ambassador car with red light at the top, stopping at my feet. The back seat door opened and the man inside me looked familiar. Ohh Yes, he was the same MLA who had visited their home a week ago.

Shashi: Let me drop you Beta..

Why did he always call her "Beta" ? Thats something her mother and Nani used to call her.

Khushi: No thanks. I dont want to trouble you Sir. .I will manage.

Seemed like he was taken aback when I called him "Sir".

Shashi: No formalities. Get inside.. You wont find a Taxi at such odd hours here.

He was right but even then I was hesitated to take a lift from such a renowned MLA. He moves to the other side, giving me space to get in. I finally give up. I get in .The driver starts the car. I see the Secretary sitting next to the Driver whereas me and the MLA, whose name I am still not remembering is sitting next to me.

Shashi:  Where should I drop you? Home?
Khushi: Yes.
Shashi: Driver.. Take us to ASR's house.

I am obliged by his help. I smile back at him.

Khushi: Sorry Sir.. I dont remember your name..

He is unhappy to know that, I can read his face.

It was much obvious for any father to feel torn apart knowing that his daughter doesnt recognise him to be her father. Shashi Gupta took it very strongly in his heart, welcoming more the uneasiness that he was already feeling in his chest. He started sweating, his eyes turned red as he held his palm against his heart and screamed in pain. I was totally shocked. I held his arm.

Khushi: Sir? What is happening to you? Are you okay?

He didnt seem to be in a state of mind to answer me. The secretary asks  the Driver take us to a nearby hospital. I keep caressing this MLA on his arm and wipe off his forehead's sweat. I am totally confused what went wrong suddenly?

******************

After admiting the MLA here in the City Care hospital, I am waiting to understand what should be my next move? I recall the MLA's name as SG.. And very soon I even hear his secretary using the name "Shashi Gupta" all the time he is talking over the phone to inform the family of this man about his sudden hospitalization.. It's so good to get to know the people sharing the same last name. By this I remember I should be calling up Arnav and inform him where I am. I dont want him to keep looking for me madly, not finding me home. I dial his number. The moment he answers the call, he asks me in a rude voice.

Arnav: Why are you not home yet?

The insecurity in him will always keep me hunting like this, even if I have told him I have no connection with Viraj anymore.

Khushi: I am at City Care hospital.
This softens his voice but not his concern.
Arnav: Hospital? What are you doing there? You alright?
Khushi: If you stop panicking, I can tell you what I am doing here?  (he stops questioning but she can hear his footsteps clearly on call which means he is now heading somewhere.. probably to his car to reach the Hospital).. That MLA.. who visited our home the other day, he got a sudden pain in chest.. So me and his Secretary got him to this hospital. He is admitted now. The Doctors havnt told anything yet.. They are treating him.

Arnav: Stay there!!

He disconnected the call and I am surprised how come he didnt ask me anything else ? I know he will come here. This SG meant something to him.. I sit on the couch outside, on this VIP Floor and wait for Arnav to reach. After almost 30 minutes, he is there. He comes straight to me and then clutches my arm in anger.

Arnav: What were you doing with him?

Ohh!! So he kept all his queries sealed in his lips so that he can clarify those, face to face with me. I look around and find the Secretary and few of the MLA's guards looking at us. I try to shrug Arnav's hands but fail.

Khushi: Can we do this at home, please? We are been watched here.

He takes few seconds to understand what I said and then leave my arms. He turns and walks to the Secretary to get some insight on what exactly happened to SG.. I can hear his talks.

Arnav ( to the Secretary): Is AJ informed?
Secretary: Yes Sir. She is on way too.

He nods and returns back to me.

Arnav: I have called the Driver to take you back home. Go!!
Khushi: And you? Wont you come?
Arnav: Later.

I nod. May be he should stay here. He knows this man afterall.

Khushi: Let me wait till the Doctor gives some update about him.
Arnav: Not needed .. I said GO HOME!
Khushi: It's my choice to stay. I am the one who got him here at the first place. At least for humanity I should stay for some time.

Arnav clenched his jaw.

Arnav: Khushi.. Which language should I speak, that you understand?

I frown at his level of anger and tone. I dont want to create another scene here so I take my purse and leave.

Arnav Singh Raizada keeps staring at his wife. It was better if she leaves this place before AJ comes.. He knows AJ cant stand her presence and it was better that way otherwise it wont take long for Khushi to realise she had some connection with SG and his family.

In few minutes Anjali Jha hurried inside the Hospital and headed straight to the VIP floor. She reached outside the room where her father was been diagonised. She tried entering in, but Arnav stopped her.

Arnav: AJ.. Dont go inside. He will be fine..

He and AJ never connected emotionally, neither he was interested in it. AJ turned back to the Secretary to know how did this happen. He started explaining, how Shashi's attention was not in the party meeting, how he felt little uneasy onway and then he picked up ASR's wife.. Khushi and decided to drop her home.. Thats when this happened. AJ was furious.. Her father was now trying to make attempts to spend time with his other daughter ?What was going on in his mind? Arnav now understood what had happened and how Khushi ended up here. One thing was confirmed.. SG was interferring now in their lives and if he thinks Arnav wont do anything about it, then he is entirely wrong.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 35

AJ fumed to know that her father tried to connect with his other daughter, Khushi. She turned back to Arnav who was equally lost in thinking something.

AJ: I know who is behind all this? You are purposely trying to get your wife close to my father.. This is your way to threaten me so that I can get his signatures on those papers, isnt it?

Arnav: Stop accusing me AJ.. I have better ideas to get what I want. I dont need to play such foolish games and use my Wife for it.. She is not aware of anything and so be it.

AJ could sense, Arnav was not lying. She had been trusting him from quite a time now. Meeting Khushi onway could have been a coincidence but why did he wanted to drop her home? What all had they talked in the car? Did he give Khushi any hint about he being her father? She was running out of ideas on how to keep a tab over it when the Doctor came out .

Dr: Mr Gupta is fine now. It was a minor stroke. Everything is under control. You can see him after few hours when he is conscious.

AJ noded and then commanded her father's personal security to guard the room where he will be shifted in few hours.


AJ: No one without my permission can meet him here. Am I clear?

The guards acknowledged. Arnav finally took a sigh of relief. Temporarily the matter was controlled but what about next?
Arnav: I am leaving too. You call me if anything needed.
AJ: I just need you to keep her away from my father Arnav. THis has to be the last time they met.
Arnav: I want the same!!

With that he left hurriedly back to his Car . He had to get home and have some clean conversation with his Wife first to warn her not to take lift from people she doesnt know fully.

******************

I was back home and changed into my night clothes when Arnav returned from the hospital. I wanted an update.. I came to him while he removed his coat and threw on the bed.

Khushi: How is he now? What did the Doctor's say?

He clenched his jaw and pinned me to the wall behind. I was not surprised by his actions because these are very common to me now. I dont retaliate though. I just meet his eyes to read what wrong did I ask for him to react that way?

Arnav: Let's keep this topic Out of this house. I gave you the liberty to work and drive by yourself back home everyday, not to take lift from unknown people and land yourself in trouble. So respect that liberty and dont make me keep watch on you 24/7 again. I would love doing that although.

Before I could defend myself, he pushes me away and gets in the bathroom for shower.  I scream at him.

Khushi: You are a devil Arnav.. I wish you had a peice of heart in you to care for people's emotions..

He doesnt care what I speak. He latches the bathroom door and then ignore all my further words by turning ON the shower.

******************

An hour later

Me and Arnav are eating Dinner at the table. I am not in a good mood tonight. Somehow the flashes of that MLA, means SG, as they called him, was haunting my mind. The way he called me "Beta" everytime we met made me feel linked to him. I couldnt bear seeing him in pain when he got that stroke in the car. I could feel his pain as if he was related to me. I dont know why but I remember my mother and Nani, the time I spent with them and how suddenly they left me all alone. I keep stirring the soup without caring to drink it. This continued for some more minutes until finally Arnav sees me and notices my lost mood.

Arnav: Eat the food Khushi. It's getting cold. ( his rough voice enters my ears)

I hear it yet tend to ignore. It pisses him off.

Arnav: (angrily): Two more minutes and if you dont eat I will force you to stuff it in your mouth. Dont blame me later.
He can do that, I know. I finally look in his eyes.

Khushi: I am thinking about SG.. He is not related to me yet I feel.. as if.. I .. know him.. Why is it happening to me? Why am I so restless for an unknown man?

His expressions become pale. He hadnt expected me to take SG's stroke matter so much to my heart.

Arnav: You did humanity out there taking him to the Hospital. It's done.. and dusted.. Forget it and get back your mood.

Khushi (little frustrated): You wont understand this.. Because for you no one matters in this world.. You are selfish Arnav, you always were. But I am not like you..  I have a reason to think about that man.

The moment he heard this nonsense (as per him) from me, he picked the knife and pressed his palm against it, bruising it by a long deep cut. .I am terribly shocked. .He feels nothing doing it, not even any pain.

Arnav: Now you have a reason to think about me?

He wants attention.. FROM ME!! I hate that attitude of his but somehow cannot let it go just like that. I get up from my chair and call the maid for getting the first aid box.. I pull a chair next to him and snatch that knife from his hand, throwing it on the table. Blood was oozing out of his palm. He still didnt react. The maid keeps the first aid box and leaves. I start cleaning his wound. He looks at me all the time while I keep my eyes on his palm, only.

Khushi: If you think such acts will get me close to you then you are wrong Mr Arnav Singh Raizada. I am expecting a husband out of you, not a teenage kid who needs my attention all the time. So Grow up..!! (I finish bandaging his wound and after that I dont even wait for a second there)

Arnav keeps looking at Khushi who climbs the stairs and leaves back to the bedroom. Did she just say that she was expecting a "husband" out of him? What else was he then if not her husband? And to be more precise, was she willing to give this marriage a new start?

******************

That night I didnt talk to him again. He came back in the room late and I pretended to be fast asleep on the Couch. He kept staring at me from the bed for long and then drifted into sleep. The next day while I am leaving for work, he stops me when I try to reach the Dupatta, which was kept on the bed.

Arnav: Lets go for Dinner tonight. Just you and me? ( His tone was soft as if he wants to make it up for yesterday's behaviour)
Khushi: I am not in a mood for any Dinner outside.

I pick the Dupatta and wear it quickly, turning away to leave when he holds my hand.

Arnav: (angrily): Dont walk away when I am talking to you..

He suddenly remembered Aman's said words. He had to control his anger or else he will never get Khushi for himself. He soften his tone again.

Arnav: Forget Dinner.. We can go for a Movie or else.. Your favourite actor's..
Khushi (turning behind to see him): Do you even know who my favourite actor is? (she asked angrily)

I see him clenching his jaw again but he tries to hide his anger from her.

Arnav: You will get to know my answer once the movie starts. Be ready by 08:00pm, I will pick you from home.

I dont deny.. He looks very confident as if he knows what I like.. So why not see if this is true?
Khushi: Okay.. Just a movie and if its not the one I am expecting, I will walk out before it starts. ( I warn and then walk out of the room)

Arnav is contended that she agreed. He will ensure she enjoys the movie and diverts her attention from SG and his hospitalization.

******************

I knew Arnav wont like to know I am visiting the Hospital to meet SG.. It's not that I like to always go against his words but I want to see SG..I couldnt stop myself from knowing about his health. I reach the VIP room where he is admitted after the Surgery. His guards are securing the place. One of them stops me.

Guard: You cannot go inside..
Khushi: I have to see SG.
Guard: No one is allowed to see him without Anjali Madam's permission.

I try to explain them I wont take long but they still deny. Suddenly SG's secretary who was in the Car with us yesterday when this happened reached there. He saw me and then entered inside to see SG. Even he didnt pay any heed to me. I didnt know what to do. May be I should just leave. I sigh and then am about to leave but thats when the Secretary comes outside and calls me out.

Secretary: Maam.. You can go in. Sir wants to see you.

I feel elated. The guards move aside and allow me in. The Secretary also stays out. I enter the room. SG is resting but he is awake. The ECG machines are attached to him. He smiles at me and gestures me to sit next to his bed. I walk and sit there.

Khushi: How are you feeling now?
Shashi: Now... better..

Shashi was happy that Khushi showed the curtousy to see him in the hospital. Khushi kept the fruits she had purchased for Shashi at the side table.

Khushi: I got so afraid when you suddenly got that pain.. You have to take care of yourself Sir.. Your family needs you and most importantly your profession too.

Shashi felt so greatful to hear such sweet words from his daughter's mouth. He remembered Garima, Khushi's mother, who always used to advise him the same way. Whenever he neglected his health she would make him understand how the country needed his service and guidance for development. The Doctor came inside and interrupted their conversation.

Dr: Excuse me Maam.. The patient needs to rest. You can see him in the evening.
Khushi: Yes. (I got up ) Take care.. ( I said smiling at SG, he smiles back at me)
Shashi: Will you come again? (he asks with much anticipation as if he wants me to say a Yes)

I nod and then walk out of the room, back to my work.

******************

Fortunately I had no work at AR Office today, I was busy at the Show Venue with Prashant and my team from Jashn. So Arnav never got to know about my visit to the Hospital to see SG. I wanted it to remain so. I know he wont understand. Humanity is 1000000 miles away from him. I am back home and getting ready to go out for the Movie as he planned to. I wore a Blue Jeans and a white top, long enough to keep me warm. I know the cooling there will be high and I very easily get allergic to high cooling. He comes home and asks me few minutes to get freshen up. I wait down till he gets ready. I just hope this movie plan is worth me spending time with him. I really dont know why I agreed in the first place to go out with him. But this is what "Change" means to me. I wanted circumstances to change a bit. I am tired of crying and thinking about my future with him. He very well knows I have given a pause to our Divorce matter so he better have good reasons to convince me about our relationship. I check the clock, he had told me the movie is sharp at 09:30 and it's 08:45 now. Though the Multiplex is quite near to our place, I still dont want to miss the beginning, whichever movie he plans to show me tonight.

Finally I see him coming down , in the same color combination, I was wearing, white Jeans and a White full sleeved casual Shirt neatly tucked in. He picks the keys of his car and we walk out. On our way to the Multiplex he calls up Aman.

Arnav: Send me the tickets Aman. We have already left.

He cuts the call and then looks at me.

Khushi: So .. AMAN booked it ?Not you ?
Arnav: Are you kidding me ? You expect me to do online Movie ticket booking leaving all my work?

I frown.

Arnav: When I have people to do such silly tasks for me, why would I waste my energry.
Khushi: Then you should have sent Aman to watch the movie with me, why waste energy? ( I mock)

He gives me a raged look and then keeps quiet. Whatever it is, I now plan to torture  him a lot during the Movie. Let me see his breaking point.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 36

Me and Arnav entered the Multiplex together. There were many young couples, in their teens, around us and the way they kept giggling and showing publicly their love gestures made me suffocated. Why was it so easy to fall for someone during that age and not now? You dont really judge people much in your teenage, but as you grow, your insecurities, your expectations, grow parallely and then every action you take, demand an explanation, to your own self. Is he the one for me? Can he keep me really happy? Will he do everything possible to keep me beside him forever? Can he give me that respect and liberty I am expecting? And so on.. She had answered her self asked questions. She heard Arnav calling out her name whilst holding her elbow.

Arnav: Our's is screen 3. You are walking towards the Wrong Screen.

I check the Screen numbers and then a confident smirk appear on my face.

Khushi: Now will I know which Movie we are watching? Because I dont want to waste my energy going inside. I told you, if its not my choice, I will walk away right from here.

Arnav doesnt like the little fuss I am making ,publicly. He gets closer to me, not that close to create a scene though.

Arnav: We are going to watch "Prem"( he replied affirmatively hoping to see my blush and smile heartily and though I equally want to give all those expressions, I control them)
Khushi: (faking a sigh): You want to say "Salmaan" is my favourite Actor? ( Arnav was amused when I asked him that. I just hoped he doesnt catch me leing. Salmaan is and will always remain my Crush. ) Well.. You lost your chance.. He is not my favourite.

Arnav: (stepping towards me in anger): HE IS!! So dont you lie to me and make stories of liking someone else instead.

How does he know? I am curious to get my answer and seek that from him the very next instant .

Arnav: I have seen your Facebook and Instagram Profiles. You have liked all his fan pages, you need all his updates and you still want to tell me he is not your favourite?

I feel like chewing my tongue getting speechless. But I recover that feeling soon enough as some other thought pokes in my head. I am angered.

Khushi: How do you know about my Second account on Facebook and Insta? It doesnt even have my right name on it.

I have created two profiles for my social accounts, one for the people I know and the other was a Secret me, just to keep getting updates of my favourite stars. How did he get to know that I had another account too?

Arnav: You can hide from the world, not from me Khushi ( his husky voice was supposed to scare me but it didnt. Infact it made me more curious and then serious)
Khushi: You spy on my social accounts?

Arnav understood where this conversation was leading and hence explained her before she hits him for being spied.

Arnav: Not anymore. I had used hackers to get some info about your whereabouts when you left me alone here and eloped to San Fransisco. That was the last time I spied on all your social accounts, including this one. To get your exact location.

I frowned. For doing this, I swore not to let him win this Movie idea with me.

Arnav: You will miss the beginning if we keep arguing here. Lets get inside.

He didnt give me a chance to deny. We both almost reach the Screen door and I stop forcibly. He gives me a scorned look.
Khushi: I want something to eat. (I look around at the Eatables counter and the most long queue was for the Popcorn. I devised a plan to irritate him). I want Popcorn.

He looked at the queue and then again at me.

Arnav: Such a long queue.? You will miss the beginning for sure.
Khushi: Not me.. You will miss it. Because you are going to buy that for me while I chill inside on the seats and enjoy the start.

He clenched his jaw at my thoughts.

Khushi: Getting me here was your idea. Not mine ( I remind him tactfully)

He gives me one last raged look and then stands in the queue having no option left out. I feel so good to see him doing something for me. I know boys have no patience sometimes but the younger generation boys still do all this to flaunt before their new girlfriends. It's hard for Arnav Singh Raizada to behave one like them. I give him a cool smile from the Screen door and then walk inside. It's true that I dont want to miss my favourite actor's movie's start.

After 30 minutes, Arnav entered the Screen hall and sat next to me, handing me the Popcorn bucket. He doesnt utter a word, but just sits next and watches the movie. I start munching .It feels idiotic to do such crazy things against him but on the other hand it makes me feel contended that I could make him go through the same frustration which he keeps making me go everyday.

Suddenly our eyes shift from the screen to the couple sitting  few seats away from us. They were very much engrossed in kissing which made me uncomfortable. I tried not to look at them. Why cant these kids get a grip on their emotions ? Public places are not meant for such gestures. Suddenly I feel Arnav's fingers sliding on my arm which was resting on the comfortable VIP couch that  he had booked. I hyperventilate. Was his touch a repercussion of what they both just saw?  This was not needed. I am not used to such unintended romance. I look at Arnav from the corner of my eyes in that darkness, he was observing me too and that too with a smirk. Suddenly his finger rested on my leg and I jerked.

Arnav: Relaxx... There is no frog here to jump like that. It's just me..
I shrug his arm off from my leg.

Khushi: Thats why I jumped. If it had been a frog , I would have allowed it to stay on my feet as long as it wished to.
Arnav's scorned expressions again reminded me how much irritated he was for my continuous denials.
Arnav: Shouldnt you allow me to be a bit semi formal with you? I was only holding your hand.

Khushi: I dont need a hand hold.
Arnav: I do.!!( he admitted and I felt Arnav not less than a teen who needed his first girl friend to allow expressing him everything he desired to test on her)

Before I could say anything, he again entwins his fingers in mine and then looks ahead at the screen. His fingers give me a warm feeling inside. This kind of gestures from a man to his woman takes away all her worries and pain forever. So I am just imagining if this is some kind of indication for me too or is it that I am expecting way too much from this man ? After he holds my hand, I am unable to further concentrate on the movie. All my attention was on his fingers and the grip he had on me, yet the smoothness in his touch, the gentle caress he kept giving me at the back of my fingers. Every single centimeter of my fingers were active, vibrant and over sensitive by his hold and I was just staring at the Screen blankly.

It's finally the movie interval after another 45 minutes. I break our hand hold. My fingers have become numb.

Khushi: I want some coffee.

I am not asking him this to trouble him more, I really need one. Arnav pulls out his wallet and then extends it towards me.

Arnav: Your turn.

I glare at him unhappily. He wants me to stand in the Queue?

Khushi: I dont want money, I can buy coffee myself. (I curtly reply)

He understands my mood is changing which he doesnt wish to afford at this point of time. Hence  he gets up and leaves. I like to see him in this role where I am taking the lead and he is on the receiving end. But I know he is doing all this only to get close to me. He has no other reasons to pamper me so much otherwise. The movie continues and I am really happy for this little change in my daily schedule. It had been ages since I devoted so much time for entertainment in the past few months. My time had passed earlier either grieving for Nani's death, or working hard and trying to find ways to get off this marriage with a Devil.

The drive back home was quiet and however my initial plan of irritating him in the Movie had not been very successful, I still wanted to end this evening on a good note. The moment I get down with him from the car, I thank him.

Khushi: I liked this little time I spent out..Thank you..

He hadnt expected me to say this. He comes to me and stops a feet away.

Arnav: Then Have dinner with me tomorrow.. .Outside..

My eyebrows arch with surprise. Unbelievable.

Khushi: Nani always used to say this.. If you ask a Boy to hold your finger, he will hold your entire arm the next second. Always too desperate for more.. !! (My comments make him grin. I dont really understand what I should think about the little attempts he was making these days) .. I cant.. come.. (I am affirmative about my denial)

Arnav: I am not asking... I am informing you Khushi. We do have Dinner's at home together, so whats the harm if we eat out instead? I will ensure the food is healthy and according to your taste ( he has got everything covered)

I see no excuse to provide him except one.

Khushi:  If I remember we were supposed to take Arushi to a Dermatologist tomorrow. I will take her if you busy, which means I can be late.

Arnav rolls his eyes as if trying to calm down the anger rising in him, hearing my excuses. I use this opportunity to get inside the house. I am avoiding him from convincing me more, or else who knows I might even agree, which I dont want to right now ..

I try getting inside the house, ending this conversation here. Thats when a maid comes to me and hands a file.

Maid: Maam. Some Murthy had come to give you this file. Seems you forgot it today morning in the City hospital.

I take the file from her and she leaves. How could I forget about this file? I cannot be that irresponsible. Luckily SG's secretary Murthy got it back or else I would have to work on the contents of this file all over again.

Arnav: So you had been to City Hospital today? ( I hear his stern voice from behind me. I froze)

He comes and stands before me.

Arnav: (continues): Even after my refusal ?

I hadnt expected him to get to know this so soon. My bad!!
Khushi: I have the liberty to choose the people I want to see.
Arnav gritted his teeth. He even stepped forward to warn me again but stops. He probably realises its of no use. I am not someone he  could control anymore, like he did before. He watches me with utmost rage and then walks towards the stairs. I take a sigh of relief. I am not sure if he would do anything worse to make me stop meeting SG. What harm does it cause him if I do see that man?  What is it that Arnav is hiding from me?

******************

After the disclosure from Khushi that she had been to see SG today morning in the hospital, Arnav Singh Raizada was thinking the consequences if this meets continued. WHat is SG tells Khushi the truth of being her father? What will be Khushi's reactions? Will she accept that man? If she does that, there might be possibilities that she would reveal her unhappiness in this marriage and SG would try helping her out of it. What about him then? He will be totally left out..!! He will neither have a Wife, nor the additional perks he received because of her through SG. Damn!! He wont let that happen. But he had to handle this very delicately or else he will as it is lose Khushi's little interest growing these days in him. He wanted to drink badly but he was bound by the Deal between him and Khushi that he wont touch the Alcohol until he makes her drink once. Why the hell did he agree? That woman was such a trouble in his peaceful life sometimes. He sometimes didnt understand who was controlling whom?

There was a message beep on his phone and it was from Aman. He checked the message and a smirk appeared on his face again. So a Private Hacker was hired by Aman. He will have to meet this man and get his doubts cleared. Who had sent that Pictures to him if not Viraj? One thing was clear, those pictures were deliberately taken so that he is always kept reminded about Khushi cheating him even after marriage. It was only after Khushi's hearty revealation to him about her past that he believed Khushi was innocent, at least she didnt have any interest in Viraj anymore. That's why now he wanted to bridge the gap between her and him, which is why he was doing all this acts with the help of Aman to win this woman and keep her glued to him forever , not with hatred but by liking and desires. It was high time he also finds out who wanted to keep that from happening. He messaged Aman back to schedule a meeting with this Hacker outside their Office premises. He looked at Khushi who was sleeping on the Recliner comfortably. Very soon, this woman will be accepting him forever in her life, breaking all the walls she had physcially built between them.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 37 

Arnav met the hacker at a Private lounge of Hotel Silver Park, almost 10 kms away from the Delhi City Center. He wanted to keep this meeting a secret, hence he chose such a far location. Aman Mathur accompanied him there just to ensure he gets every possible data to accomplish his work, if needed.     
"I am Prathamesh Tiwari", the hacker introduced. "And of course, I dont need your introduction Sir. I know everything about you"     

Arnav was not very surprised when he revealed that. He was aware of a Hacker's mentality and working styles. They always liked to know their Clients beforehand.     
 Arnav: I have a very tiny work for you, and I hope you will complete it successfully without taking much of my time.   
Pratamesh: Sure. I will put all my energy in it. I am just very eager to work for you. You have no clue how much I admire you. If you .. 
Arnav ( gesturing him to stop speaking): I just said.."Dont waste my time"     
Prathamesh realised his talkative nature can sometimes be irritating to his Clients. He nodded and then quickly opened his laptop and connected some hard drives to it.     
Prathamesh: Alright.. So what am I hacking today?   
Arnav gestured Aman to hand over some papers which he did and then left the two alone . 
Arnav: These are IP addresses of the machines / laptops / mobiles of what people known to me use. I need you to hack the IP address of the machine which sent me an email some months back. And then match it with this list. I have a doubt that one of them's should match.     
For a hacker like Prathamesh this was the easiest task assigned for a big price. He started his work. Arnav shared the email which had come to his Inbox straight from Viraj's email id. It took almost 30 minutes for Prathamesh to come to the conclusion of his test.     
Prathamesh: Here it is.. The IP address belongs to your own residence.     
 Arnav Singh Raizada got shocked by this revealation. His own residence owns this IP address? How's that possible? Just one name now.. Was enough for him to take his next measures..   
  Arnav ( clenching his jaw):  Give me the name Prathamesh.   
Prathamesh read the anger on his face and then quickly gave the name, Arnav needed.     
 *******************     
I quickly pack the tiffin which I had specially prepared for someone.. Someone I was getting fond of .. Someone I wanted to respect and feel my lost elderly bliss. After Nani, if I was called "Beta" by anyone, then it was this politician SG... Right from the first time I met this man, I felt immense pull towards him. I was not a woman who can get easily attached to anyone she meets, so it was this unusual feelings growing within that tempted me to know everything about SG and understand him as a person. I took my a cab and then asked the Driver to take me to the Hospital first.       As usual there were guards at the VIP room door where SG was hosptialised. But this time no one stopped me. May be they were asked not to. I was allowed to meet SG and that too without any check, which was quite surprising. He was an MLA but even the Doctors who entered this room were thoroughly checked by the guards before getting in. How can they spare me?       I entered in and saw a Doctor injecting SG who was trying his best to shrug off that pain. A smile appeared on my lips.     
 Khushi: Good Morning.. ( I greet him lovingly)     
All the pain which he was holding until now went off and he smiled back at me, as if he is equally happy seeing me here.     
 SG: Khushi?   
Khushi (entering inside): Sorry.. I didnt know the Dr was inside or else I would have waited out.   
SG: SO what? You dont need to bother all this to see me.. Sit..   
Khushi: Thanks.. How are you feeling today?   
SG: The Doctor's can tell you that better.     
The Doctor smiled and replied to that query.     

Dr: Mr Gupta is doing fine...We might even discharge him from the hospital in 2 days.     
Suddenly hearing the lastname "Gupta" surprised me more. The Doctor left and SG looks at me.     
SG: Khushi? Where are you lost? 
Khushi: Your .. your last name is Gupta?     

SG made a face as if he was been caught. He was worried how much his daughter knew about her father? Did she know his full name? Did Garima or Devyaniji ever tell her what her father's name is ? She ought to knew it.. But considering the situations which lead Garima keep Khushi away from him, she might have also kept his name hidden.     

 SG:  Yes.. Thats.. that's my last name.. Why?   
Khushi (smiling): Coincidently thats my last name too.   

SG didnt give a pleasant smile as if this was not a news to him. He took it very casually and changed the topic and I wondered why?     
SG: How is your life going on? With Arnav?   
Khushi: Good. ! ( I lie.. Obviously it wasnt that bad like I considered it when I was in San Fransisco. He wasnt ill-treating me and that was enough for me for the time being)     
SG realised it was too early for her to open mouth to him and speak against Arnav. May be she was scared to reveal the pain of her marriage to anyone. Was Arnav blackmailing her? Treating her worse?     

Khushi: I have got some healthy breakfast for you. (I take out the tiffin and then keep it on the table aside)..   
SG: You made it for me? So much efforts for me? ( his eyes filled with tears and I could see how my gesture had made him feel homely) 
Khushi: I make it mostly for myself.. I carry my own tiffin to work. So I made something extra for you. And dont worry, its as per your diet plan. . 
 SG quickly took the tiffin and opened it.   
SG: I dont diet. And I love home made food. (he starts eating).. Umm.. It is lovely.     
 I feel good appreciated. I keep admiring him eating for few more minutes.     
SG: I was sick of eating the hospital food, no taste at all.   
Khushi (chuckled): I thought so.. Okay then ( I get up).. I am getting late for work. I will take your leave.     
 SG's face became pale again but he knew I was tied up by work and hence cannot wait for long. 
 SG: If you plan to come tomorrow again, get me some Poha. I am dying to eat that.   
  I chuckle heartily by his request.     
Khushi: Sure. I will make Poha for tomorrow. Bye..     
Yesterday I forgot my file here but today I ensure to collect each of my belongings before I leave. Not that I am worried of Arnav shouting me for increasing my meet with SG but I just dont walk his Secretary to do this additional tasks of dropping my stuff at home everyday.     
******************     
Raizada House     
 Arnav Singh Raizada drove speedily towards his house. Since the time he had come to know who had sent him those pictures on behalf of Viraj, he was desperate to thrash that woman in person.!! He stopped the car with a shierk and got down. There were already few cars parked and looked like there was some kitty party going on inside the house. When he entered the Living room, he saw his Step mother Amrita Raizada sharing a hearty laugh with her rich spoilt friends who were busy enjoying the Barbeque.        The moment Amrita saw him, she quickly got up from the Couch and her expressions turned frightened.     

Arnav: (gritting his teeth): Ask your friends to leave.. 
 The other women kept looking at each other's faces trying to understand what was happening. 
 Amrita: Arnav? What kind of behaviour is this ? 
Arnav: If they dont leave, you will be left repenting for your entire life for being dishonoured before your close friends.     

Amrita could see the anger oozing out from Arnav's talks. She couldnt take a chance. She immediately apolozised to her friends and asked them to leave. Once they all were gone, Arnav threw some papers to her.. She picked one of those.. They were the proof's of his investigation today through the Hacker. The IP address of the laptop from which the email was sent through Viraj's mailbox, was her's.     

Arnav: WHY? ( he yelled at her)     
She was trying to digest this fact that Arnav was now aware what she did.     

Arnav: I always kept my nose away from your life and this house.. Then why? (he stepped forward).. Why did you play such a nasty game?     
Amrita was scared. She moved back and in no time she fell on the couch again. Before she could get up , he leaned down and held her neck, trying to strangle her.     
Arnav: You took my mother's place in this house.. I didnt stop you. You snatched my father away spreading venom about me, I didnt care.. But this time you have tried to take away my wife from me. There is no forgiveness for this..     
Amrita felt choked. She had no strength to push Arnav away. Suddenly someone caught his arms and tried to shove them off from her neck. Arushi was here to help.     
 Arushi: ASR... Leave.. Leave her.. ASR... ( she screamed at Arnav with extreme anger)     
The moment Arnav heard his baby sister's voice, he left Amrita's neck. Arushi immediately aided her mother by giving her some water to drink. Amrita was coughing badly.     
Arushi (angrily at Arnav): What were you doing? You were killing my mother?   
Arnav fisted his fingers. He hadnt expected Arushi to be at home, at this hour.. 
Arushi :I hate you.. I hate you ASR..     
Arnav Singh Raizada froze. Did his sister just say that she hated him? Before Arushi could aid her mother again, he clutched Arushi's arms.     

 Arnav: You have no idea what she did.. 
Arushi: leave me ( she shrugged).. I dont care what she did.. What I am shocked is .. to see you going to this extent.. You were about to kill her if I hadnt come.. Are you even a human? 
Arnav's eyes turned pale.. Human? Was he? 
 Arushi: Leave my house before I ask the guards to throw you out of here. Just go ASR.. Go ( she pushed him harder and then ran to her mother for help. )     
 Amrita took her support and then walked to the stairs.. She seriously needed some rest..      Arushi: Hari Prakash. Call a Dr .. ( she screamed while making her mother walk the stairs)     
Arnav kept staring at his sister, watching her leave like that, without even knowing what the fact was, made him feel terrible.  He started moving back, slowly.. Nothing felt right.. He never expected Arushi to turn cold at him. Not this way. Never!! In the next few minutes, he got inside the car and drove out from that premises. He had no one left in this world who would understand him.. People just needed him "AWAY". !!     

*****************   

 It was very strange to know from Aman that Arnav had come to office today. Why? Where was he? Even AMan had no clear idea. All he knew was that after meeting the Hacker, Arnav had left hurriedly in his car. I got to know about his absence at work because I was here at Raizada office to meet Prashant and discuss some crucial details about the show. There were only 2 more weeks remaining for the Event and I just wanted to ensure, everything was on schedule.       I was still busy with Prashant, when my phone started ringing. It was Daadi's call. I excused from the cabin and answered the call.     

Khushi: Daadi.. How are you ? 
 Daadi sounded panicked to me. 
Daadi: Khushi..Arnav... He had .. he had come here and.. he tried to strangle Amrita..     
 I am shocked to know this. Words choke in my throat as Daadi explains me the entire scene. Why did Arnav do that? I cant believe he can go to this extent to hurt somebody.     
Daadi: I don't know where he is. He is not answering the phone call. I am worried.. Please can you look for him?   
Khushi: Daadi.. ( I try to relax her) You don't worry. I will find him and try to check what has happened. You stay calm.     
I though try to convince Daadi, I am not sure how am I supposed to do this ? I had so many questions running in my head right now. Why did Arnav behave so low? Only he would be able to answer that.   
 
_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 38

The first thing I do after disconnnecting Daadi's call is inform Prashant that something more important needs my attention right now. I dont want to tell him it's about Arnav. He is the Boss here and his staff dont have to know what's happening in his personal life. Prashant understands my urgency and agrees to continue this meeting the next day. I hurried down to get a Cab while making a quick call at home, to see if Arnav was there. The maid denies. Arnav was not at home. He will never choose home as his den to recover from his grief. He was a very secretive personality. So where else can he be? Suddenly I remember that place at the hill top where he had taken me the other evening. The same place where I revealed to him, my past. Yes.. He had told me that place was the only one where he visited in such distress situations. That's it then. I know where to look for him. I quickly get in the Cab and reach that place as quick as I can.

It's almost getting darker now. I wonder what he might be doing there? He had that craziness to hurt himself, physically. And he himself had told me that this was the same place where he once tried committing Suicide. My heart ached badly as I neared that location. I hope he was fine. Not because he was my husband. I am just doing this for humanity. It was not that ,staying with this man, I had started growing any kind of feelings for him. I got down from the Cab after seeing Arnav's car parked few feet away. So, he is here. I pay the Cab and then rush to the other side of the hill. I see him.. He is sitting at the edge of the Cliff, drinking uncontrollably. He had promised he wont touch alcohol until he makes he drink once, but he failed to do so and I dont want to argue on that. People think Alcohol can relieve them from pain, but the truth is, it only makes you more vulnerable. I reach to his side and then sit next to him, looking at the same evening view of the City, at the backdrop of the Sunset.

He knows I am next to him, yet there is utmost silence between us. He might not tell me things easily. He had that ability to keep his feelings, only restricted to himself. I see him raising the bottle to drink and that's when I take the lead and hold his hand, stopping his actions.

Khushi: This wont help Arnav..

He gave me an exhausted smile, which was full of discontentment.
Arnav: Am I human? ( he asks me with utmost hope of me being truthful while answering it. )

Khushi: By Race. Yes. You are a human.
Arnav: But with a Devil's heart. Right? ( he laughs with sarcasm and tries getting up from there)

His body struggles to stand firm and in the process his head collides with a side rock. Blood oozes out in few seconds.

Khushi : Arnav?? ( I try to hold his arm but he shoves me off)
Arnav: Get away from me.. Why are you here? ( his voice is not properly audible as he is overdrunk)

Khushi: People are looking madly for you. Do you even care about that ?

I dont understand why I said "PEOPLE"? It was just Daadi and me who worried for him right now. No one else bothered.

Arnav: Jhoot (Lie).. No one is looking for me.. No one needs me.. (he reaches me again in few strides and clutches my shoulders painfully).. You know why? Because I am not a Human.. ( he leaves me again with a jerk and extends his arms wide in air screaming loudly).. This is my Legacy.. Being a Devil . This is my legacy Khushi.. ( his voice starts breaking)

I have no idea who fueled this thought in his brains. I have always seen him strong and controlling. The Arnav I am meeting today doesnt possess those traits.

Khushi: Stop!! Stop screaming like that and tell me what has happened..
Arnav: (giving a astounded smirk): Really? You are not going to point at me, blame me before knowing why I did that?

That's what he is hurt about. He was not heard.. Never heard before sentencing with punishment.

Khushi: Look.. I am here to hear you.. So please tell me what happened that you almost tried to Strangle a woman?

Arnav (angrily fisted his fingers): She is witch.. !! Dont curse the race of women by calling her that.
I can read how much hatred he carries in his heart for Amrita Raizada. This was no longer because she was his Step mother. This hatred had more to that. He inhales deep and clutches my shoulder again.

Arnav: She has tried keeping you away from me.. That's what she did.
I am shocked but I still dont understand on what basis he was stating this.

Arnav: Those photos were not sent by Viraj.. It was Amrita who hacked his email account through a professional and mailed those to me. She purposely planted her Cameraman to take yours and Viraj's snaps when I was away for Business.

My hands shiver. Can a woman do this? Go to such an extent ? Why? I know she wanted Arnav to marry her neice Tanvi but this is not a way to take a revenge and seperate any married couple.
Arnav: I will not leave her... Arushi stopped me today but..

Khushi (interrupting): But what? Do you plan to kill her, Arnav? Does it suit you? Not about yourself then at least think about the name of your family.
Arnav was raged at that term "Family"

Arnav (gripping her shoulders more tight): Those people out there are not my family.
Khushi: I am not talking about them.. I am talking about ME... We take each other as husband-wife or not, doesnt matter. You have married me, and you had promised my Nani to take care of me as a husband. If you do something like this, a crime, do you know what will I go through? Do you want me to keep running in the Court, behind lawyers to file a plea for you?

My words shook Arnav out of his dreadful plans of hurting Amrita Raizada. His grip on me loosened.

Khushi: Amrita Raizada is not totally at fault. .

Thousands of questions crowded in his head.

Khushi: Yes.. The fault lies in our relationship. You should have trusted me upon those pictures.. Which you didnt. ( I sigh in disappointment) Tomorrow anyone would come up with more such plans, more fake proofs, against my character, will you believe it Arnav?

My question opens his eyes fully. He doesnt look that drowsy now.

Khushi: Why so much trust on the outsiders and not on your own wife?

She was right.. Arnav felt immense pressure in his heart and mind to believe in what she said. How could he trust some photos and not her? Only because she had eloped to an unknown location, dropping their marriage , doesnt mean she was at fault.

Khushi: You always kept counting other's mistakes whereas the main problem was burried deep down inside you. You never trusted your own Wife.

Arnav felt daggers in her words.

Khushi: You kept spying on me, spending crores of rupees in your baseless investigation. Instead you should have straightway asked me what was going on? If I really had an ongoing affair with Viraj after my marriage to you, or not?

Arnav Singh Raizada, the commander became a listener tonight. She made sense..

Khushi: I am not saying I was right either. I should not have eloped, thinking my life had ended, marrying you. Only few weeks of relationship doesnt decide the fate of it Arnav. I should have stayed back, fought with the worse you showered on me and make this marriage work. I failed too.

His palm suddenly cupped my cheek and I could feel immense heat already rising in my entire body.

Arnav: That is why we got a second chance. To make this work.

Okay ,now I had lost that commanding grip again, he took over that. I try not to indulge myself in answering that. I dont want to give him any hopes which I regret later.

Khushi: We should get back home.

I hold his hand and try to make him walk till his car. Thats our only mode of transportation right now. He keeps bumping his feet around the underlying stones, not being able to have control on his body while I try to hold him firm. I manage to get him seated inside the car, with obviously me taking the wheel in hand. His tired head fell back on the seat as he closed his eyes becoming semi-conscious. I start the engine of the car and take us both out of there, not forgetting to dial Daadi quickly and tell her Arnav was fine..

****************

The next morning Arnav woke up from a bad dream. His body was trembling like he would collapse anytime. Not to mention the headache was still very prominent. Last night and his doings in the Raizada house yesterday had taken a toll on him. Arushi, who had been the closest person to him ever, had pushed him away, probably Forever. Nothing was permanent in life, definately not relationships. He picked his phone which was on the side table. There were almost 30 missed calls from his father, since last evening and 5 - 8 messages which were still unread. Why would he call his father back? Only to hear what a grave mistake he did by trying to strangle his Step mother? Damm!! The mere thought of what Amrita Raizada did to destroy his life, made him want to kill her right now.

The door opened and Khushi came inside the bedroom, all dressed. She was wearing a Sleeveless Sky blue Chudidaar. She looked different every time he saw her... getting better in her looks every second. She had a glass of juice in her hand for removing his hangover. She extended it to him. But when he didnt move his hand and kept admiring her face, she replied.

Khushi: I have got to Office Arnav. So take this fast and spare my time.

Arnav smirked. For some reason he liked her commanding tone. He took the glass in his hand and gulped the drink in a go. He saw the time on the clock, while keeping the glass back on the side table. It was 09:00am and had it been his usual routine, he would have been at his office by this time. Unfortunately his headache and the unnecessary weakness in his body were not very keen in allowing him to work today. He got down the bed. Khushi was looking for something in the closet. Even though  their relationship was always bitter, she was still interested in caringfor him. What should he call it? A typical Indian wife?

Khushi: (closing the closet after getting her watch): I have told Daadi to pay a visit here. She will look after you the whole day. And please, no more drinking. (she paused to meet his eyes briefly. It had a sort of guilt in them).. Aman is also informed not to disturb you by work. He can handle it one day, without you.

She turned again to wear the watch on her wrist when he suddenly wrapped his arms around her, from behind. There was never anyone who would take this care for him. After his mother's death and his father re-marrying, even in times of fever, he wanted this much attention but never got any. That lonliness started increasing to this extent that he bought this house, to stay away from his own family, forever.

Khushi froze feeling his tight hug. She felt him scrubbing his nose on her shoulder, as if inhaling her scent. This was not his usual way.. his touch was gentle and very much decent.

Arnav: Dine with me tonight.. ( he whispered in her ears ..His tone didnt give her any better excuses to deny)

She plainly noded and unbuckled his arms from her stomach.

Khushi: Bye..

She took her purse and then without turning behind she left the room. Her inner consciousness did warn her, things were changed. Arnav knew she was innocent, he wanted to mend things now. But was she ready for it.? Will this change everything again between them? Does she need this change? And most importantly, will this change be permanent? She might have tried to know a lot about her husband earlier, but since she left to San Fransisco, she gave up learning about him, even as a person. He was not a normal man who would turn into a loving husband. He had his own insecurities, own motives and selfishnes even to want her by his side. She was afraid of this. The more she would learn about him, the less she would like him. This is what stopped her always from considering him again in her life. She left on fate to reveal in the coming days, whats instore for them and their marriage .

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 39

Shashi Gupta laughed heartily as Khushi cut the apple for him while reading the joke from her social account. It was a political joke and the moment Khushi had read it today morning, she felt like sharing it with him.. As instructed, she had cooked Poha for him and he finished eating it in no time. Her food reminded him of Garima. His daughter had got the same skills and cooking style like her mother. Khushi admired the way he laughed. He looked like a small kid. Every human, whatever age, has a child hidden in him/her. She had experienced that in Nani too, when she was alive. A sudden gloominess appeared on her face which Shashi noticed.

Shashi: Khushi? Where is your smile?

Khushi: Nothing.. I remembered my Nani..
Devyani, Garima's mother, had always been strict towards him. He still remembered how she kept disallowing him to meet Garima when Khushi was born. She was afraid that the baby might start growing affection for him and will be hurt some day as her father can never accept her before the society.

Khushi: She passed away last year. I miss her a lot. Wish she was alive. You know, after she died, I had no one left as an elderly figure in my life, who can guide me, take care of me. ( tears welled in her eyes).
Shashi felt a prick in his heart.

Shashi: But Arnav was there, wasnt he? To take care of you?

There was a pin drop silence when Shashi asked her this. She didnt know what should she respond? Does SG know she had been to San Fransisco for few months and came back here only to get Divorce, which was still hanging in the air right now? Fortunately, the Doctors came inside for their regular check up. Khushi moved aside, allowing the Doctors to diagnose him.

Dr: Guptaji.. You are recovering very fast..

Shashi looked at Khushi who was the real reason of his early recovery. It was his wish  to stay with Khushi, to be called as "Paapa" by her, which made him push back his illness.
Dr: I think in a day or two you can be discharged from the Hospital, back to your home. A nurse will be there to take care of your 24x7.
Khushi was delighted to know that but not Shashi. If he is back home, Anjali will never allow Khushi to meet him. Also, he will still be weak enough to meet Khushi outside his home.

Shashi: No no Doctor. I dont want to go home so soon.
Like the Doctor's even Khushi was surprised hearing that.

Dr: What do you mean Guptaji.. You will be absolutely fine in a day, yea the weakness will still be there which is why I would recommend not to step out of the house for a week atleast. But ..
Shashi: Exactly.. I dont want to be locked in my house. Here, I feel better. Dont send me home so soon Doctor.

The doctor saw no point in this yet he didnt argue. He will have to talk to SG's daughter before taking this decision and he would do that today evening.
Dr: Okay. You rest now. I will come later.

The Doctor left and even Khushi took her purse to leave. SHe had cut the Apple into pieces and she handed the plate to him.

Khushi : I also should leave. Dont leave even one single piece in the plate. Okay? ( she warned authoratively which he liked again)

If daughter's dont show authority on their fathers, who else would? Wishing Shashi a good day, Khushi left for her Venue of AR's next Fashion show.

******************

Daadi was here to look after Arnav and she didnt raise even one single question against what he did yesterday. She was been told by Khushi everything last night. She just wanted her Grandson to cool down now and take care of himself, come out of this pain that his Step mother tried to break his marriage. She entered his bedroom with a plate of his favourite Salad and Juice. Arnav Singh Raizada was lost somewhere in his laptop.. What was he so keenly observing? He had a slight smile on his lips and his eyes were not ready to even blink.. Daadi quietly entered in, and then stood next to him, just to peep at his Laptop screen and what she saw just made her happy. He was watching his wife Khushi Gupta. .. LIVE .. At the Venue of his Fashion Show location..

There were Live camera's installed at the Venue, recently , which were part of the Show in 10 days. Arnav had opened his laptop in the intention of checking the set up there and if the Camera's covered entirely the Ramp and the other area's too where the Guests would be seated. In the process, his eyes were honored the sight of his wife who was roaming around the Venue, doing her work, talking to the crew members and fixing things up. He took this opportunity to  keep his eyes on her, not because he wanted to spy. He couldnt just take his gaze off his wife's innocent looks. She was the same woman whom he had insulted, spied and tortured all this while considering her to have an extra marital affair with that Viraj. The revealation through his hacker had cleared every odd he had for her, giving his heart enough jerks to start beating rapidly, whenever she was around.

Daadi cleared her throat to get his attention..

Daadi: Nice way to keep your thoughts diverted Arnav beta..
Arnav shut the screen of his laptop.

Daadi: Dont stop.. Please continue this for the rest of your life. I have always wanted the differences between you two to wipe off and now thats it's finally happening, I dont want to interrupt.
Arnav: Teach her all this. It's she who still prefers one arm distance from me.
How he hated that.

Daadi: (sitting next to him): There are ways you need to follow Arnav. All a woman wants is love, care and respect. If you give her that, she will always be with you, no matter what.

All this was still out of reach for Arnav to understand and follow. Before he could even try to assimilate his thoughts, his phone started ringing.. It was Arushi who was calling him. His face muscles stretched. Arushi had hurt him very much. Daadi saw the anger building up in Arnav.

Daadi: Dont talk to her if you are still stressed.

He disconnected the call. Daadi caressed his head. Suddenly they both felt someone already standing at the door and watching them. It was Arushi standing there with anger in her eyes. Arnav was shocked. What was she doing here?

Daadi: Arushi? When did you come?

Without uttering a word, Arushi stormed inside. Her every step towards Arnav took pace and very soon she gave him a bone crushing hug, crying and venting out her emotions. Arnav couldnt resist hugging her back. He took her with the same warmth and caressed her back. Daadi was surprised that Arushi and Arnav patched up, but obviously she was happy about it. After 2 minutes Arushi broke the hug and met Arnav's eyes.

Arushi: ASR.. I am sorry.. I hurt you. .
Arnav didnt interrupt her apology.

Arushi: I knew Mom must have done something horrible for you to take such a step, but it was still wrong ASR.. She is my mother. It was you who always asked me not to talk ill about her, because she gave me birth. She is the reason I am in this world. I couldnt see her dying and that too by your hands. You are the most important person I have in my life. I was afraid to lose you both.. I said those hurtful words to you, but that was only in anger. I am sorry ASR..

She hugged him back and Arnav Singh Raizada who had never forgiven people who misjudged him, or tried to overpower him, gave in to his sister's innocent pleads.

Arnav: I am glad you didnt hold your anger against me for long.
Arushi: Your wife, Khushi.. I need to thank her as well. Where is she?

Arnav was perplexed where Khushi was involved here?

Daadi: Arnav.. Actually yesterday night, Khushi talked to both of us. Me and Arushi. She explained it was not completely your fault. Amrita did this grave mistake of spoiling your married life. And whatever you did during the confrontation with her, was only its outburst, considering your bad temper.

Ohh, this woman..! She had really baffled him again. She hated him for how he treated her, yet she fought to prove his stand? She was an epitome of Goodness in mankind, which was very rare these days.

Arnav: She is at work Arushi. I will convey your thanks to her today evening when I meet.
Arushi: No. I want to meet her personally. You know ASR.. She is really different from you. I always thought her my enemy, that one day she might snatch you from me. But it's not so. I was wrong. She could have used this opportunity to feed you against me but she didnt. WHy couldnt I sense her unrightness before?

Yea. Now that was his concern too. Why didnt he see her her niceness earlier? All this would never have happened.

Daadi: Arushi.. Today evening your brother and his wife are going to Dine outside. They need this time alone. You can meet Khushi some other time.

Arushi smiled nodding a Okay.

Daadi (taking a sigh of relief): Finally.. Things sorted. Now only Ayush needs to understand which I am sure he does. 
Arushi: Dad is stuck.. He always had issues whom to support. He is not talking to Mom after knowing what she did. He even called you ASR.. many times last night but you didnt answer.

Arnav didnt reply. So what if his father isnt talking to his second wife? He knows Amrita Raizada, she will soon turn his mind, like she did always.

*******************

I got down the Car, at the lobby entrance of the Hotel where me and Arnav were supposed to Dine tonight. I felt little ackward to have given a go ahead to Arnav for all this. But somehow I had realised he needed a mood change, after what happened yesterday. Since when did I start thinking about him so deeply? Well, for now I shrugged my thoughts temporarily and got inside the hotel. It was dim lighted but a very romantic ambience around, perfect for such dates but did they both suit here tonight? Their relationship was on the bottleneck of breaking and continuing.

Before I could ask where Arnav was, he slid an arm on my waist and displayed his presence to me.

Arnav: You are 5 minutes late. ( he whispered in my ears)

His tone was extra husky tonight.

Khushi: Okay, I shall leave then, as a punishment?  ( I backfired his complaint)
Arnav: Correct your thoughts Lady. You might have come here by your Will but leaving when and where will be mine.

As expected he gave me his commanding reply and dragged me gently towards the Dine Area. It was large and mostly vacant, few couples here and there. Our table was at the corner, quite aloof and private. He pulls a chair for me. I have never been bestowed with this kind of gestures from me so it makes me feel strange yet I dont complain him.

After I am comfortable, he gets seated too and the Waiter immediately places the Menu Tab and leaves.

Khushi: So? How was your day at home?
Arnav: (moved his hand in pocket and removed a small box) : Got time to buy this.

He showed me the tiny box and then opened it swiftly. It contained a Ring. WHAT ? RING? Why did he get a ring? For whom? Me? No way..

Arnav: ( looking desperately in my eyes holding the ring in between his fingers): Give me your hand. ( he commands)

His actions have snatched my ability to breathe normally. I am not used to such kind behaviour from him. I feel fretted if his actions would turn out more intense if I choose to accept this Ring.

Khushi: Is it a Thank you gift for what I did last night?
His tone sharpened
Arnav: It means a lot more than that.

He pulls my arm and then gently slids the ring in my finger. Not giving me enough time to protest, he called the Waiter and placed the order for both of us. I keep looking at the ring and then at his face. He had been showing every signs of wanting this marriage work. More than before, his advances now ,were scaring me.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 40

I look at the sparkling diamond in the finger ring, he just made me wear. It was rare and I could say that by just looking at it.
Khushi: Why did you spend so much on me? ( I showed him the ring again).. It was not necessary Arnav. If you think to earn my attention by this, then..
Arnav  ( interrupted): Money cant buy you.. I know.

He gulps the drink and looks at me like an angry Fox..

Arnav: And I dont buy things which are already mine.

I chuckle sarcastically and start eating.

Khushi: Why do you always keep saying that so confidently? I havnt even acknowledged our marriage yet and

Arnav: (interrupting again): And I know you will do that soon. You are going to take me as your husband, IN ALL SENSE, quite soon. .
The way he says "IN ALL SENSE" makes my heart flutter.

Arnav: And it's not my overconfidence, I can read faces. And your's I can even read with my eyes closed.
Khushi: Really? Why couldnt you read my innocence before then? Why did I need to explain you about Viraj? Wasnt that noticable on my face? (I mock which obviously he doesnt like)

He gives me some serious looks and then sighs.

Arnav: Guess we need to be more cordial to work this Dinner out. I am not IN for any arguments here.
Khushi: Neither am I.

I eat quietly, concentrating on the food and not him. He gives us both few minutes to come off this topic and raises another one.

Arnav: Arushi had come home today. She was sorry for what she said to me..
Khushi: Ohh Finally!! I am glad (I exclaim with a smile on my face) .. I never want you to lose the only few loved ones you have.
Arnav: What about your father? Did you talk to him? he was calling you frequently last night.
Arnav stiffens as I mention about his father.

Arnav: He might have few more complaints to make, why I touched his wife? Her hurt? How dare I ? ( he groans in frustration and meets my eyes) I know him. He can understand everyone, except me.

I feel that pain in his words. I realise that his childhood scars are still hurting him, distancing him from his father. I dont prick those further. I remain the topic slip right now. We finish the dinner with just these kind of talks and then leave the Hotel. I am already comprehending his efforts in bridging the gap between us, making this marriage work. But I still have an unknown fear raging inside me. What if this doesnt work? What if this is all temporary? As far as I know, Arnav Singh RAizada is a man who cannot be tamed. He stops by the Car and then waits for me to reach. The moment I do, he pins me to the Car door. I then come out of my thoughts and concentrate what he was trying to do. He presses him against me and looks intently at my face, as if taking in as much as he could.

Arnav: I have to go to Rajasthan tomorrow night, some important meeting has come up related to the upcoming show. 

I do understand. All these last minute meetings are so common for a busy man like him. But why was he telling me that?

Arnav: Come along with me Khushi.

Was he asking or commanding me?

Khushi: I am busy. Prashant has ..
Arnav ( Interrupting) : Prashant can handle without you for 2 days.
Khushi: I am on Jashn's payroll not your company's. I am answerable to Kumar Sir.
Arnav: I can talk to him.. 

He is trying his level best to convince me by eating up all my excuses. So I come directly to the point.

Khushi: I dont want to go with you.

His body flinched at my straight arrogant response.

Khushi: Look, we are still adopting this.. I havnt taken any decision about us yet.. I want to avoid travelling with you, as your wife. It might land me into troubles that I have not imagined or prepared for.

Arnav: Troubles?  (he shoots his sharp gaze at me)

Khushi: Yes.. Unwanted togetherness leading to unnecessary intimacies..

He grins at me and then gently relaxes his grip.

Arnav: Intimacy.. !! Yup. .Thats the word..  ( he sighs and holds my jaw) I dont understand why you are so adamant about it? People who have just met an hour ago, dont mind being physical if they feel attracted towards each other. We are still married.

His explanations dont shock me. He has always been this straight forward in letting me know he desires this from me. Wants me to accept his physical moves.

Arnav: Khushi come on. You are not that innocent. You know I am trying to bridge these gaps in our marriage. To make it work. So Help me.
That is what is bothering me. His efforts in making the relationship work. I dont know how to make him explain that I am not prepared yet, why, even I myself dont know.

Khushi: (shrugging his hold from my jaw): The event is on my head Arnav.
Arnav: Fine!! I will postpone this whole event. Matter closed. Let's end these excuses of Prashant, Kumar and your so called Jashn.!!

He was about to dial someone on this subject, but I dont let him do that.

Khushi: Arnav please. There are whole bunch of people related to this one event. Dont postpone it only because you want me to go with you to Rajasthan..

Arnav: Then come ( he again commands)

I turn my gaze away from him, being unsure what to do? I hear him sigh in frustration.

Arnav: Okay.. Keep finding excuses, but until I leave, I will keep tempting you to join me. Let see who wins? You give in or I give up!!
He opens the car door for me and waits. I meet his eyes and do see overconfidence. He thinks I will give in ? No way. I get in the car and he follows me. We drive back home.

********************

When we reach back home, there is someone already present to welcome us. His father Ayush Raizada is here. We are both surprised by his presence. It has definately something to do with Arnav's earlier rage on Amrita Raizada. Arnav gives his father a very cold look.

Arnav: If you are here to warn me to stay away from your wife, then you are wasting your time Dad. If she crosses my way again, trying her indecent acts, I will not mind dragging her to court.

Ayush: Why are you so hyper all the time Arnav. Cant people just have a normal conversation with you ?

Arnav: NORMAL? DId you ever try to make my life Normal? ( he groaned the next instant over his outburst. I am just a spectator, not intruding between the Father- Son).. Look.. I am not in a mood to drill my past. Speak up what you have and leave..

Ayush came forward.

Ayush: Amrita is wrong, she didnt do good by poisoning your mind against Khushi. I apolozise on her behalf.
Arnav (chuckled): On her behalf? Why ? Is she dead?
I cannot take these cruel words anymore from him. I intrude.

Khushi: Arnav, listen to what he has to say. Stop being judgemental all the time.
He doesnt like me getting in betweem them. He stares at me angrily.

Arnav: You look tired.. Go get some rest until I finish this talk.

He always does this.. Avoids me when I try to point him out for the wrong he does.

Arnav: GO ( he almost screams and I dont wait there longer. I leave. )

Ayush: Why are you shouting her? She just tried to relax you Arnav.
Arnav: Stop your lectures Dad. You should have done it at the right time. Now, I have moved a lot away from all this Shit!! I dont need your apology, I never needed. Go and handle your wife. Tell her she will not be spared if she tries all this again.

Ayush gulped. He was whole and sole responsible for major change in his little boy. He should have paid attention to him when the time was right. Now his Son was lost in a world, wherein it was impossible to get him from.

Ayush: I am sorry for what harm it caused to you and Khushi. That's all I wanted to tell you. Take care.. ( he patted Arnav's Arms and then left out)

*******************

Hospital

Anjali Jha was happy that about the progress of her father.

Dr: It is not going to be a speedy recovery Mrs Jha. You will have to ensure he is at bed rest for at least 1 more week. If that is followed, I dont mind him discharging tomorrow.
Anjali: I will take care of that. We need 2 regular nurses and one Dr who keeps visiting twice a day. I think that should suffice.

Dr: Those arrangements are already made. What I am surprised is, Mr Gupta doesnt wish to leave this Hospital. Probably he liked our hospitality here ( he passed a teasing chuckle)

AJ was confused. As far as she knew her father hated Hospitals. He infact even disliked getting his regular checkups done. Then how can he suddenly behave opposite? Something else flashed in her mind. She excused from the Doctor's cabin and walked out. Something was definately not right. She went to the guards and checked the list of people who have been meeting her father in the hospital till date. All were known people, including the political acquaintances. Nothing seemed wrong. That's when her father's secretary was passing by. She stopped him.

AJ: Mishraji.. Who else visits Paapa here?

Mishra settled his spectacles on his nose in little hurry.
Mishra: The . the list has all names included Anjali Beta.

AJ was very good at reading him. He was hiding something. She didnt question him again and allowed him to leave. If what she was guessing is right, then she will have to ensure her father is kept under her scrutiny forever. She walked back to the Doctor's cabin and asked them to make the Discharge papers ready. She will be moving out her father, the next early morning.

*****************

It's been 2 hours since Arnav's father had left. I see Arnav sitting at the Poolside and doing something serious on his laptop. I am on the bed, watching some random news. That's when I see the news flashing.. About SG's recovery. There are no live pictures of his, but the hospital is covered and also there is a small photo of SG at the corner of the TV Screen. I smile. Suddenly Arnav gets in and switches the TV off. Before I could yell at him, he places his palm over my mouth, pinning me to the headboard of the bed, behind.

Arnav: You like Camels?

I dont understand what this has to do with me? I push his hand away and try to breathe normal.

Khushi: Why did you remember Camels all of a sudden?

Arnav: There are plenty in Rajasthan. We can Ride one together.

Ohh Lord!! He was trying to tempt me for going with him? Using CAMELS? Was he insane?

Khushi: I dont like Camel's.

Arnav: Why? ( he frowns).. They are a rare species. You dont get to see them in other parts of the country Khushi. ( he argues)
Khushi: Elephants and tigers are rare too. That doesnt mean I have to do a Jungle safari to take a look of them.
I get down the bed and walk to the Couch. It's time for me to get some sleep. He follows me.

Arnav: We can have a Desert Safari too.
Khushi: Sorry.. I am not ready for Sunburns. ( I still have an excuse)
Arnav clenches his jaw.

Khushi ( turning again at him): You are wasting your time Arnav. I am not going to get convinced. So please pack your bags and go for this Trip, alone.
Arnav: (looking at the watch): Every denial from you is increasing my energy levels. You will accompany me there Sweetheart. SO it's better you stop wasting your time and keep your stuff packed. We will be there for 2 days.

I give him an angered glare for that overconfidence. Arnav turns to get back on the bed but suddenly stops and sees me again.

Arnav: Dont forget to pack your Anti Tan lotions. It will keep the Sunburns away.  ( he smirks again at my helplessness and jumps on the bed, lying flat over his stomach)

What was he doing? If he is so sure, he can make it happen. But how?


_______________________________________________________________________________



Part 41   

 Shashi Gupta was highly disappointed when his daughter Anjali Jha got him discharged from the hospital. He denied many times requesting for staying a day or two more, he even faked being unwell and unfit to move out of the hospital, but AJ shrugged off all his pleas and her suspicions started getting clearer. That person who visited her father in the hospital was none other than Khushi Singh Raizada. She wished to stop their communication somehow and for that she will have to talk to Arnav. He is the only one who can control his wife. But these days looked like even he was not interested in controlling her. He was softening. Why? How? She will have to find out.     
***************   
 The next day when I came to Office, I was asked to meet Prashant immediately. I could guess it was urgent but what ? I entered his cabin only to find Aman ready to leave. Aman's presence here somehow gives me an intention that this was related to Arnav.     
Aman: Hi ( he smiles)   Khushi: Hello Aman. What are you doing here?   
Aman: This office has given its employee's liberty to move around. (Prashant chuckles while I am still serious)         
Aman and his crooked replies, I thought.     
Aman: Anyways, excuse me.     
He leaves the cabin and I wait for Prashant to brief me what the Urgency is.     
Prashant: Khushi we have a slight change in the agenda.   
Khushi: Change ? 
Prashant: Yes, seems like a part of the Event monitoring Team from Jashn is going to be delayed. I had got a call from your Boss Murthy today morning regarding this. But he has also given us an alternative. The other small team prepared to take over the monitoring will be reaching here exactly one day before the Event.   
Khushi: One day prior? Isnt that too short time for them to understand our Event's requirements?   
Prashant: Exactly, it is merely impossible and I cannot take chances if they fail to monitor the show as per AR's terms.   
Khushi : Hmm. So what do we do now? 
Prashant: Someone from us will have to meet them first and brief them everything so that almost 50% of the terms is covered there. And the rest 50% will be done once they reach here one day prior.   
Khushi: Great idea. Who is going? Either you or me right?   
Prashant: You obviously because I am stuck up with other meetings here related to other upcoming shows.       I
 take a sigh of relief. Finally I got some excuse to deny Arnav for Rajasthan.     
Khushi: Fine by me.   
Prashant: Great. So I will ask Aman to book your flight then.   
Khushi ( stunned): Flight? Wait.. where is that team located?   
Prashant: Rajasthan..     
My eyes widen. This aint a coincidence. This is what my husband planned? Yea, he can plan this much big agenda to take me there.     
Prashant: Any problem Khushi? By the way Aman told me even ASR is going there. So it might be good if you both travel together.     
So that's why Aman was here? To convince Prashant to make me travel with my husband.. Huh!! Hate you Aman..     
 Khushi: Yes. You leave the tickets on me. I will self book and then claim.   
Prashant: Sure? ( I nod) Okay then you book the tickets, I will arrange your documentation part.     
I leave the cabin. I was still walking on the lobby, thinking all the way how cunning my husband was, when suddenly I see Arnav getting out of the Conference room with his team. Their meeting just got over probably. The team disperses and he sees me. I stop, seeing him advancing.   
Arnav ( smirking ): So? Ab toh bag pack karogi naa? ( At least now will you pack your bags?)   I give him a scorned look. 
Khushi: I told you not to play with my work, didnt I ?   
Arnav: I gave you the liberty to take off, you didnt. You had only one excuse, your work. What was I supposed to do?     
I frown lowering my gaze elsewhere. It was waste asking answers from him. He pulls my chin and our eyes meet again. Luckily there is no one around here to see us in this state.   
Arnav: Take it as our Short honeymoon.     
My skin start getting goosebumps. I shrug his arm off from my chin.   
Arnav: Relax.. I know I have never cared about you as my wife, but now I want to show you that things have changed, for Good. ( there is sincerity in his eyes which worries me.
Yes he wanted to make up for all that I had to go through. But was I prepared?) Honeymoon has many aspects apart from the one you are denying for. I will keep that in mind.       Really? He was not talking about any physical intimacy? Or consummation of our marriage? He wanted this short trip to be more of making up for me? Is he the same man who had always showed signs of desiring me fully? The same man who wanted to bind me in this marriage by giving him a heir ?     
Arnav: Now be a good girl and finish your work, we are flying tonight.     
He lingers his thumb over the sweat bead formed at the crook of my neck. His eyes scanning every single point where his thumb wipes off. I keep looking at him for another short period, taking in his efforts of making our relationship work. Was it good for me to trust him and move forward ? I have known his weaknesses, I have understood what makes him angry and what soothes him down. Will this all be enough to help us lead the marriage ahead? He never forced me for intimacy but will he realise this intimacy comes together with feelings for each other? What does he feel for me? Am I only his possession? Or do I mean more to him? His dominance over me was fine in certain limits. I always liked men who dominated their woman in good way. I think that makes a woman feel secured. I might be wrong ,but I dont hate that trait in men, only if that dominance is on a certain level and never crossed.      Arnav realises I dont retaliate when he touches my neck and that surprises him. He groans deeply pushing me to the wall behind and cupping my cheeks. I immediately come out of my thoughts.     
Arnav: You are tempting me Khushi. Walk off or else I might do something which you are not ready for.     
I feel a gush of heat in my stomach. He desires me. I am his weakness.. He fails to control himself when I am around him.. He wants me completely. But is that enough to be submissive towards him? I guess this trip to Rajasthan will help me find my answers. It will be just the two of us, with hardly few hours work and loads of free time to understand each other more deeply. This trip is an opportunity for me to take a decision. I will not miss it. I push him very very gently , so that I can get some space to move away. He doesnt want to leave me but he knows he has to let me go for now . We both even hear some voices from the stairs which means soon the staff will be witnessing us if we dont backout. I leave from there but there is a mirror right ahead of me and I can see my husband still admiring me leave. Damn!! Am I falling weak?   

  *******************     

We are waiting to board the flight. I am surprised that he didnt book a private jet this time for his trip. Probably he knew I wont be using that opportunity to travel in his jet. So he had to come down one level for me and agree to travel in the common flights. I see few college girls drooling at him. And why not, he is wearing a dark denims and white shirt which is neatly tucked in, making his abs and muscles readily noticable. He is busy checking his phone messages while I fake to read a novel. The girls giggle describing his hotness to each other and there is a smile on my lips too. I wonder what it might be for one of those to be in my place. They  would have eaten him up, only if they knew what his darker side is. I see of the girl trying to take a selfie in such a way that he is also captured in the image. Now I feel alarmed. I immediately get up and stand between the girls and him. Arnav raises his head to see me, his eyes as if asking me why I got up like that, all of a sudden?     
Khushi: Uh.. Would you have some coffee ? I need one so.. ( thats the only excuse I could think of)   
Arnav gets up from his seat, but why is he smirking? 
 Arnav: Toh Khushi Singh Raizada Jealous bhi hoti hai? When some other women eyes her husband?     
I feel caught. So he knew they were oogling him? And he even entertained them? Thats when we hear the boarding announcement. I pick my purse and we both wait in the queue to get inside the Plane. The moment we reach the entrance of the Plane and show our tickets to the Cabin crew member, they guide Arnav to the Business class seat and my seat is behind in the Economy.     
 Arnav: I think there is some mistake. We are together ( he argues with the Cabin crew)     
"No Sir, Maam's ticket is of Economy class" she explains.     
I smile. Yes, thats why I chose to book ticket on my own. I purposely selected Economy class considering his would be Business class. The known smile on my face makes him realise I was aware of it. 
 Arnav: Never mind.. Take the extra charges and shift her next to me.     
"Sorry Sir, the entire flight is booked. We cant change the seats now"     
He clenches his jaw. I hold his arm to ease off his anger.     
Khushi: It's hardly a matter of 2 hours. I will sit behind. You be comfortable here. Okay? Bye..       I walk away looking for my seat.
Though a part of me feels bad for him . This would have been our first trip together, sitting next to each other and he lost the opportunity. I get seated. I have an elderly woman next to me. Luckily mine is a window seat. I clasp my seat belt and wait for the flight to start when suddenly I see the Cabin Crew girl offering the elderly woman beside me to shift to a Business Class seat. She readily agrees as it was free of cost. I wonder why they did so but soon after the elderly lady leaves with her Purse, I get my doubts answered. Arnav Singh Raizada occupies that seat next to me. I am totally surprised. He exchanged his seat? He sacrificed his Royal Business class seat just to sit beside me?     
Arnav: Dont see me like that. I just saved you from getting bored by elderly chats.   
   I see his discomfort  in that small seat but he still manages to show his satisfaction. A smile appears on my lips noticing all his efforts. This man was changing, I could say that affirmatively. The flight takes off and I keep feeling his distress. He cannot lean behind much, neither he can rest peacefully. He must be facing trouble. The cabin crew repeatedly keeps asking about his comfort and he keeps telling them he was fine.     
Arnav: What an irony!! ( he says looking at my face) Everyone but my wife is worried about my comfort.     
I close the magazine.     
Khushi: I didnt ask you to sit here. You switched the places.   
Arnav: For whom? ( he tries to prove his point)     
I ignore to reply that and unclasp my seat.     
Khushi :I have to go to the washroom.   
Arnav pulls his legs behind as I get up. The moment I try to pass from his seat, the plane shakes due to turbulence and I land up on his lap. He holds me firmly, my hair falling all over his face which I quickly move away .He doesnt seem to mind. He was carrying my entire weight on his lap and I could say he was more than delighted to do so. There are onlookers who enjoy seeing us in that stage, and the same group of girls who were oogling at him earlier sigh in depression.       Arnav wraps his arm around my waist, embarassing me more.     
Khushi: Arnav. .leave me..     
He smirks at my discomfort and loosens his grip on me. I stand and walk away hurriedly. Nonetheless I do see the faces of those girls throwing daggers at me. It feels like I have won a trophy which they had desired too.     
******************   

 Arnav: Obviously we are staying together and please dont tell me you have booked seperately to disgust me more like you did with the Flight tickets.     
His concern is genuine but wish I had that much time to book a seperate hotel. We are out of the Airport, waiting for the car to pick us.     

 Khushi: Our meeting places? Are they nearby the hotel?   
Arnav: Yes. Aman has ensured that both our meetings are at nearby.   
Khushi: Okay then.. There is no point staying seperately.     
Arnav opens the Car door and we both enter in. It's almost 10:00pm and I am already feeling tired and hungry. Nights here in Rajasthan are cooler but I wonder what the daytime heat would be. We get down at the Resort. It was very much secluded from the city crowd. Rajasthan was incredibly beautiful and known for its heritage and culture. We are escorted to the room and the Manager hands over the key to Arnav and leaves, wishing us to have a wonderful stay. The moment we get inside the room I am bewildered. A perfect authentic Maharaja suite that was. Full AC, all Royal antique peices of furnitures and the huge bed at the centre made me think even Daadi, Arushi and Ayush Uncle could have accomodated on it with me and Arnav. Wait..!! Did I just say ME and ARNAV? On one bed? Impossible.       Arnav studies my expressions very keenly and doesnt move his eyes away when he is been caught.     

Khushi: No Couch in the room? Isnt that strange?     
He gives me a half smile and replies.     
 Arnav: I asked them to specifically remove the couch from this room. Why do we need a couch when the bed is so huge? It's enough for us.     
He walks ahead scanning the room. I am not very happy by his idea of sharing the bed.  I follow him.     
Khushi: Look Arnav, I . ( he turns around and clutches my upper arms, gently)   
Arnav: Okay. Sleep where you want and I wont insist you hereafter. ( his expressions showed me clearly how unhappy he was)     
He left me and made his way to the private Balcony to make few calls. I could see how hurt he was because I dont trust him still. But did he do that in the first place ? Had he shown some trust and maturity in asking me directly about Viraj, this day would never have come. But why was I digging the past so much? The truth was out in the open and everyone deserves a chance, so does Arnav. I should start trusting him and stop avoiding him at every step he makes towards me. May be thats how our differences would erase and our lives would come back on track.     
_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 42

"I am hungry" I stare at Arnav who is engrossed in his laptop. Since the time I asked him about the Couch, he has been cold and silent to me. He pushes the cordless phone towards me.

Arnav: Call and order what you want.
Khushi: And you? Wont you eat?
Arnav didnt reply to that. I can sense what is frustrating him so much.

Khushi: So you are angry on me because I denied sleeping on bed? With you? (he raises his chin and looks at me as I continue) ..Anger cannot do any good to a relationship Arnav. It can only destroy.

My advise seem to have shaken him all the more.

Arnav (looking at me ): Yes.. I am angry on you and I dont care what it does to our relationship because I dont see you wanting One.

His tone is definately not pleasing. He gets up and reaches me, holds my arms and shook me for a second.

Arnav: Why are you so strong? Why cant you just bend ? I am not asking you to be my Slave Khushi.  Just be my Wife. Allow me to ammend things between us. Open up your heart.. Let me heal it.. I know I have troubled you a lot.. It was a disgrace that I didnt trust you over Viraj's matter. I never agree to my mistakes so easily to anyone, but I am doing that to you now. Because I want you.

That "WANT" had a very deeper meaning. I could read that by the way he spells it.

Arnav: That Arnav Singh Raizada who tortured you is already repenting. I missed a golden opportunity to win your heart when we married, and now when I am ready to win you over again, you are not allowing me to even start? Is this justice ? What is it? Some kind of a punishment? If Yes, then tell me that straight away, stop playing mind games because I am not interested in it.

He waits to read my expressions and then continues.

Arnav: Raise your doubts, if you have any.. Ask me .. Talk to me.. Just dont ignore me Dammit!!

"WHY?" I ask him with utmost nervousness. He looks confused at that.

Khushi: Why did you marry me in the first instance?

He realises I have started raising my doubts.

Arnav: For Daadi.. (he says that very confidently) You know this already Khushi. I told you how Daadi wanted her friendship with your Nani to get stronger. She knew your Nani was dying. She wanted to support you. She wanted to keep you beside her forever.. through me..
Khushi: And you didnt deny? Isnt that strange? A man who never does things with his heart.. always keeps his profit before signing off any deal, married a common middle class girl only because his Daadi wanted?

Arnav takes a long pause and finally says it.. "YES" That reply looks forced. I can feel he is hiding something from me but why would he? What would he be hiding?

Arnav: I was attracted to you.. Right from the time I saw you in the hospital when me and Daadi came to see your Nani..Your petite, innocent form captivated me.. You were that gift which I might have never desired with my open eyes yet I was receiving it for free. Why would I deny?

I gulp.

Khushi: First Sight Attraction.. Thats all ?
Arnav :Dont beat the bush.. Say what you want to hear it from me Khushi ( he points out again to be precise)

I am myself not sure what I wanted to know from him, if my intuitions of he hiding something from me were right or not?

Khushi (Sighed): TRUST.. This is a mighty word Arnav.. I want that Trust to be always intact between us. I want us to share everything.. Mind.. Soul.. Body .. And Trust.. Without it we might not be able to handle each other as we are two totally unlike personalities.

Arnav took a step back and then stretched his arm for me to hold.

Arnav: Fine.. So then take a Step.. Take a step towards me and show me that you will trust me henceforth because now I do Trust you.

Damn!! This ONE STEP felt appealing.. Yet horrible..

Arnav: Come on Khushi.. What are you thinking? ( he was coaxing me) Hold my hand..
I close my eyes to take a final call. He waits for another few seconds and probably was about to give up thinking I wont do that, but thats when I keep my palm on his.. allowing him to hold it. He looks satisfied at me. I dont want to fight anymore. Not with my own destiny if he was the one written for me.. I take that last step towards him. He is overwhelmed. He cups my cheeks, sending shivers down my spine. I hold his wrists then.

Khushi: Right now.. I am really very hungry. .

He gulps his overgrown protruding desires and nods. I havnt seen him so contended ever like I see him today. He walks to the couch, picks the receiver and orders food for us. I keep looking at him, trying to analyse what joy he was going through, now that I have agreed to be his .. Forever.. No more Divorce talks... I cant promise I wont be arguing with him ever, that can always happen considering how head strong we both are.. But at least those arguments will be managable. I want to give him a chance and hopefully he will turn out to be the one I always wanted him to be.

We eat quietly and then he walks to the bed giving me a quick yet long stare , as if waiting to see when I would join him there.

Arnav: Dont be scared.. We are just sleeping. I am not asking you for my Heir tonight.

Somehow this dialogue cracked me up.

Khushi: I am not scared of you, I never was.
Arnav: Then what's taking you so long to reach the bed?

He had a point. I shove my mobile to him.

Khushi: I need to talk to Daadi.
Arnav: Now?
Khushi: Yes. It's hardly 10:00
He doesnt deny me.
Arnav: Go ahead

He climbs the bed and I was only hoping he will sleep soon but looks like he wont, until I get in there.  I keep talking to Daadi for a while and in between he too gets a call.. from Aman, thats what I heard. I no more give a ear to his business talks. As it is he walks out at the Balcony to complete the call and I am still inside.

Arnav: Aman be specific.
Aman: ASR..The Land deal, you said AJ will get it signed by her father and then we can start our initial work there. But..

Arnav hadnt forgotten this. It was just that the truth revealtion of Khushi having no relationship now with Viraj had occupied his time these days. He thought for a while. He saw Khushi laughing, giggling over the call. She was having a fun talk with Daadi. She was the same woman whom he had married for his own reasons... yet untold to her.. he cannot expect her to be normal to him if he tells her how selfish he had been all this while.

Aman: ASR? You there Boss?
Arnav: Uhh. yea.. I am here.
Aman: So? What should we do? Should I call AJ and remind her of the deal signatures?
Arnav: No.. dont!!
Aman: (surprised):Dont?
Arnav: Yes you heard that right Aman. Dont chase her for anything.
Aman: But why? What are we going to do then? Our second office set up work is all pending since months. We have already hired people and the building is yet not ready.
Arnav (gritting his teeth): I know all that okay? I am the owner of this company and I know what implications it might create if we dont get the Land deal signed from SG..
Aman: Right. .So what do we do next ? What's your orders for me?
Arnav pressed his forehead trying to think wisely. .

Arnav: Start looking for another location.
Aman (screamed): WHAT?
Arnav: YES AMAN!! NOW DO AS I SAY .. We will no longer buy a Land.. but Directly a fully built and furnished Building for setting up the Office. It will take less time to get the newly hired people accomodate.
Aman: But let me remind you that will cost us double.
Arnav: SPEND IT!! I dont mind. ( he then looked at Khushi again who was still talking over the phone)..

Aman had no clue what was wrong with ASR. He still agreed and disconnected the call. Arnav waited there to compose his mood again . He was no longer going to use Khushi as a commodity to trade for flourishing his business. Now that he knows how innocent she is, he will not let anyone , including himself to take advantage of her.!!

He stayed there for a while, looking at her. He was suffocated.. All the times when he had almost blackmailed SG for getting his work done, using Khushi and Shashi's relationship in between, haunted his mind. All these months he knew SG was Khushi's bilogical father, he was alive and even then he kept this fact hidden from her. WHY? For his own selfish needs. If he hated Khushi for being linked with Viraj, he also couldnt get rid of her as she was a politician's daughter who could fill his Bank accounts when and where required .. HE USED HER!! Damn!!

The balcony door knocked and he came out of his reverie. Khushi had finished her call.

Khushi :Are you done? All okay ?

She was bothered if he was okay? And he always kept snatching her peace . He simply noded.
Khushi: I am sleeping.. You.. ( I waited for him to say something)
Arnav: I will join you in some time. You go..

That puzzled me. Just some time back he wanted me to join him on bed and now he was asking me to go ahead ? Why? I didnt leave. I folded my arms and waited there.

Khushi: Anything bothering you ?Whose call was it? Office?

Ohh this woman.. How easily she got fit into his wife shoes. He composed himself and then faked a smile so that she doesnt start spying again.
Arnav: Too much insisting can get you in the wrong side. ( he warned her)

I didnt take his warning lightly. I exactly knew what he was capable of.

Khushi: Good night.

I leave and he turns again to view the glowing lights of the city, when suddenly I knock the Balcony door again and get his attention.

Khushi: I dont really hate Camels. A small ride is fine.

He doesnt say anything but his gentle smirk gives me the answer. He will take me there. Obviously after we finish our respective meetings. I get back inside and hesitantly climb the bed. It's very huge and I can literally stick to one side of it , giving him 75% of that space. I somehow want to trust him now.. At least in terms of our physical closeness. He wont break his own words, I know that. Though sleep didnt come quickly, I keep observing him from the glass door of the Balcony. He looked tensed.. Why?

*****************

Arnav Singh Raizada enters back in the room and sees her sleeping peacefully on bed. Here she was, lying on his bed, just the way he always wanted her to. Why was he not satisfied ?Why was he not able to go to her and live normally?

"TRUST.. This is a mighty word Arnav.. I want that Trust to be always intact between us. I want us to share everything.. Mind.. Soul.. Body .. And Trust.. "

This statement of her's is what haunted him. TRUST? It's truly a mighty word. Right from his childhood, the only people he trusted were his parents and God. . But his mother's sudden death shook his trust from God and his father's abrupt second marriage made him hate everything and everyone whom he had faith upon. Since then Trust was only a mere word for him. He never trusted his batchmates, hence never bonded with anyone whom he could call as his best friend. When he grew up, money was the only aim he had in life. He earned enough and started judging people not based on trust, but their money and power and always thought how he could make use of others to reach his goal. But Khushi was the first woman who demanded Trust from him. She was the only one woman who had managed to make him realise that Trust is the basic neccessity in any relationship. If he wants her, he will have to give her all reasons to trust him and vice versa.

Goddammit!! These thoughts were weakening him from inside and he hated being vulnerable to anything. He shut the lights off and climed the bed, lying down beside her. She was still sleeping peacefully and he didnt realise when his eyes closed and sleep engulfed his conscious mind.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 43

Arnav Singh Raizada was jogging in the vicinity of the Resort at Jaipur. Flashes of last night kept crossing his mind again and again. His wife Khushi was a very active sleeper. Whenever she tossed on the bed, to turn the other side, her long hair tickled his face. She might have chosen the far end corner of the bed to sleep, but in no time she had managed to twirl and reach next to him. She was in such a deep sleep that even if there was an earthquake, she wouldnt know. He was never captivated by any sleeping woman, the way he was by Khushi. He stopped running and stablized his breath only to be disturbed by the next incoming call from Aman Mathur. Turning his bluetooh speaker on, he answered the call.

Aman: Good Morning ASR..
Arnav: Morning Aman. Did you look for the new Office locations for AR?
Aman: Was just doing that. Will finalize a few and get back to you.
Arnav (gulping the energy drink walking briskly back towards the Resort): Hmm
Aman: How is Khushi Bhabhi?

Arnav's eyes glazed with passion realising she must be sleeping still and he didnt wish to miss the moment when she would open her eyes and wake up.

Arnav: Aman I will call you back.

He disconnected the call and hurried back to the Resort. When he entered the bedroom she was still sleeping, peacefully. He saw the flowers in the vase which were probably kept yesterday , yet they were fresh enough for his need. He picked one Red rose out of it and sat on the bed next to her sleeping form. He brushed the rose over her cheek, gently, but good enough to wake her up. She felt tickled and opened her eyes only to find her husband with the rose in his hand. She immediately sat on the bed, trying to analyse his actions. Before she could get more afraid he extended the rose for her to hold.

Arnav: Morning. ( his tone never sounded huskier like today)

Khushi looked at the rose and her decisions of last night flashed in her mind. She had promised herself to give a chance to him and this marriage. So that's why here he was, mending things between them, in his own magical way. A small smile crept her lips as she accepted the rose from him.

Arnav: My meeting will start in 2 hours, so would yours. I will drop you at your meeting location and also pick you up from there once you are done. ( looked like he had made up some agenda.) And then we are going for a Camel Safari.

Her face lit with joy. Arnav's mobile rang again, he checked the caller name and then kept it back in pocket, in a Silent mode.

Khushi: You can answer the phone if its ..
Arnav ( interrupting): It's not important. In fact.. Nothing is important to me when you are around.
Khushi felt a knot of uneasiness in her stomach. She lowered her eyes trying to find words to cut off his present cheesy mood.

His phone rang again. Arnav gritted his teeth as he read the same caller name again.

Khushi: ( reading his present state): You finish the call, I will get shower till then.

Khushi got down the bed. Arnav didnt stop her. It was better he finishes this call and stops that AJ from disturbing him frequently. The moment Khushi locked herself in the bathroom, he took the call.

Arnav: AJ I am busy..
Anjali: I know you are in Jaipur with your wife ASR..
Arnav: So? What's your point AJ?
Anjali: My point is that you are wasting your precious time for a woman who doesnt deserve you.

Arnav fisted his fingers. He would have punched hard if anyone else had dared to say this.
Anjali: Mark my words ASR.. She is not going to let you win over her.

Anjali Jha was trying her best as usual to coax Arnav against Khushi. Her enmity against Khushi was right from the time when she had got to know about her father's illegitimate relationship with Garima Gupta to the extent of having a daughter from her. 

Arnav: Hold on AJ ( he gritted his teeth interrupting her).. I have not given anyone the rights to talk between me and my wife.
Anjali sensed she was losing a grip on Arnav with regards to Khushi. He inclination towards his wife was growing day by day and if this continues a day isnt far when she might have to lose a best Business Partner and the only man whom she could use as a Pawn to destroy her only enemy.. Khushi..

Anjali :Alright. I wont throw a word against her but ask her to stay in her limits when it comes to growing bond with my father.

Arnav was not very surprised to know that. He knew Khushi had started growing an emotional bonding with Shashi Gupta these days.

Anjali: She might not have told you this but she came every day to see Dad when he was at the hospital. I had to literally take an early discharge and get him back home. Arnav dont you forget we have a Contract between us. All that extra favours which I kept on getting signed for you, from my father, was only on this one condition that you will never let Khushi know how she is related to my father.
Arnav : (angrily): I havnt forgotten that so there is no need to keep reminding me this AJ.. I am on my words. So now enough of your daily doses of digging old graves, let us both live in peace.

He kept the call and turned around only to see Khushi standing before him with clothes in her hand. Probably she had forgot to collect them before hurrying for the Shower. Sweat beads formed on Arnav Singh Raizada's forehead hoping she had not heard any of his talks with AJ because she was too good in linking dots and analysing the whole situation.

Khushi: Sorry.. I .. I didnt mean to startle you, neither I was interested in giving ears to your conversation.. But..
Arnav: It was AJ's call. AJ...My Business Partner.
Khushi: Anjali Jha right? ( she didnt clarify.. she almost confirmed it to him which amazed him even more on how did she know ? ).. She is SG's daughter.. I know that already..

Arnav gulped.

Arnav: I have to make few more calls related to my meeting. I will shower first.

Khushi felt he was ignoring the further conversation about AJ. Arnav tried to move past her but she clutched his arm. He stopped to meet her eyes again.

Khushi: Aap humse kuch chupa rahe hai ? ( are you hiding anything from me?)
That one question landed Arnav in a fix. He had to act tactfully. He clutched her arms in return and drew her closer.
Arnav: I will not hide anything from you which you should have known Khushi. Neither will I reveal anything to you which can hurt you nor I would let you hear anything which can emotionally weaken you. Understood?

His thoughts were enough to clear his motives. Was he the same man whom she thought was destined only to destroy her life? All these months he tortured her by his hurtful talks and today he wanted to keep her away from any situation or revealtion which can emotionally weaken her? This was such a necessary step to strengthen their relationship from his end. Without thinking twice, Khushi snuggled in her husband's arms, embracing him with total submission. This was the first time she had taken an initiative to show her acceptance towards this marriage and her husband. Arnav Singh Raizada was equally elated by her actions and hugged her back with the same comfort. But even though his woman was in his arms, there was still lack of solace in his heart. Was it only because he was still hiding a crucial fact from her? About her real identity? About her father?

***************

Their respective meetings got over by evening. Khushi briefed the new team about the requirements of the Fashion Event at AR and updated her Boss at Jashn, over the call. She came down and scanned the parking area to see if Arnav's car was visible anywhere. That's when she heard a familiar voice calling out her name. It was Sheetal.

Sheetal: Khushi? Tum yahan? What a surprise.
The two quickly hugged each other and then continued their talks.

Sheetal: What are you doing here in Jaipur? s
Khushi: I work at Jashn Event management company now, had a meeting related to that. And you ?
Sheetal: Same.. Work.. I have one of my Client here. So how have you been?

The two started walking together towards the parking.

Khushi: I am doing good Sheetal. Everything is falling back in place. Me and Arnav are giving this marriage a chance.
Sheetal was not very happy hearing that.
Sheetal: And are you confident this is going to work? (Khushi stopped walking, she stared at Sheetal) Sorry to ask this Khushi, but I personally think it's hard for a man like Arnav Singh Raizada to change so drastically. I have seen many such cases in my career where such men do pretend to be changed but later they turn out to be the same.
Khushi: ( holding Sheetal's hand): I was worried of that too, but this time I am confident. Whether Arnav has really changed or not is not my concern right now. He wants me, I can see that in his eyes and a man who desires a woman to this level can never hurt her again. It was all a misunderstanding Sheetal, which he had about my past and it's been cleared now. I also dont wish to drag our old differences again. It's better we put a full stop to it and move ahead.

Sheetal put a bright smile on her face.

Sheetal: You know what .. I dont think I know you. The woman I knew was so much against her husband, and the one standing before me today is a typical wife who trusts her husband and knows how to work on her marriage again.  I am happy.. ( she again hugged Khushi and the moment they pulled back from the hug, the man been discussed between them was here. )

Arnav Singh Raizada removed the glares from his eyes and stood next to Khushi. He didnt look very happy to her, infact he seemed a bit pissed off but still trying to be normal.

Arnav: Where is your phone? ( he asked Khushi in a rough tone and that confirmed her that his mood was really bad)
Khushi: Phone? ( she quickly checked inside her purse and found her phone in the silent mode) 5 missed calls. ?
Arnav: Would have been more if I had not seen you here. Dont you ever do that again. !! Pick my calls Khushi, when you dont, I get tensed. ( he warned but that warning also had an affection in it, which was noticable to both the women)
Khushi: I wont repeat this next time. Sorry..

Sheetal cleared her throat to get Arnav and Khushi's attention.

Sheetal: Hi ASR.. ( she extended her arm for a handshake)
Arnav (completing the handshake): Hello..
Sheetal: Good to see you both together again. If couples like you unite, what will Lawyers like me do? (she mocked only making Khushi chuckle whereas Arnav was still serious).. Anyways.. You both enjoy your day. Bye.. Bye Khushi..
Khushi: Bye Sheetal..

Once Sheetal was gone, Arnav turned to his wife who was lost in her mobile phone again to check whose calls and messages she missed.

Arnav: You know what I think.. I should probably put a GPS tracker on you, so that I always know where you are. I dont need to keep looking madly for you, like I did today.

Had it been the previous few months and he had suggested something like this, Khushi would have barked at him for spying her. But now she knew that he was only concerned. He trusted her.
Khushi: Okay, how many times you want me to apolozise for the same mistake?
Arnav smirked. He held her hand and drew her closer. She hadnt expected this.
Arnav: I dont need your apology Khushi.. ( his voice suddenly turned huskier and his gaze intense) I need YOU.

Khushi felt her heart skipping a beat. This proximity was giving her shivers and she was not prepared for it. She pushed him gently away.

Khushi: The Camels are waiting for us. Shall we leave?

He gulped down his overflowing desires and holding her hand he dragged Khushi with him towards their Car.

*****************

Arnav and Khushi had reached the Spot for Camel Safari. The man kneeled his Camel so that Khushi could climb. Khushi moved back feeling little scared.

Khushi: I cant sit alone.. You wont come?
Arnav looked at the Camel's face and then its hump.
Arnav: I wont be comfortable on it. You go ahead, these people here will be there to guide you. You will do Okay.
Khushi (angrily looking at him): I trust you more than them. You wanted to get me for a Camel ride, so now its your duty to make me comfortable Mr Arnav Singh Raizada.

Arnav's eyebrows twitched high by her direct orders. He moved her aside and put his foot on the Camel's knee to climb. After successfully climbing and getting seated, he extended his arm for Khushi to hold and repeat the same. Khushi was wearing a cosy jeans and loose top making her easy enough to climb, holding her husband's arm. She sat before him, their legs swaying on either sides of the Camel's body. The moment the Camel started rising up, Khushi felt lumps of uneasiness in her stomach. She closed her eyes , trying to find some support of Arnav to hold to feel safer. Arnav had realised it and hence slid his arm on her waist to hold her firm in his grip. She started losing her fear and opened he eyes again.

Arnav: ( whispering in her ears): Easy.. I have caught you. ..

Khushi felt safe in his hold. She placed her arm over his which had snaked her waist while her other arm held the rope tied to the Camel's neck. The ride began.

Khushi: Arnav.. Look there.. So many peacock's ( her enthusiasm kicked again)
Arnav had no eyes for any other living organism on this earth, other than his wife. She probably had not realised it how close he was sitting behind her. Her long pony tail kept tickling his face and neck as she kept turning her neck in 180 degree directions for sight seeing. A havoc of sensations ran in Arnav Singh Raizada's body which he kept only to himself, hoping not to scare her. It was just a beginning of their relationship, so the more he gives her space, the more she would be at ease to erase them forever.

The ride continued for an hour and finally they both got down from the Camel, collecting new and pleasant memories of their togetherness in their respective hearts.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 44

Delhi - Raizada House

Arushi paced in the Living room, holding her Smartphone. Daadi could understand why she was so restless. It had been almost 24 hours that she hadnt talked to ASR. A girl who was so much fond of her brother, never stayed that long without hearing his voice.

Arushi: Daadi.. I think I should call him up now. Did he forget me?
Daadi: Arushi.. Come here.. ( Arushi sat next to Daadi ).. look. he might be busy. He is on a business trip and also this time he is not alone. He has Khushi along. So obviously he will have to pay attention to her as well.
Arushi: But one call. I am not complaining that he didnt call me, I know he is with his wife but ...

Before she could complete her statement, her phone rang and to her surprise it was Arnav's call. She jumped in joy and answered the call.

Arushi: ASR?
Arnav: How is my Aru doing?
Arushi (sitting back on the couch and pretending to be angry): How would I do when my only Brother doesnt call me for one long day?

Arnav smirked while admiring his wife Khushi who was just back finishing her night shower and was wiping her hair by a Towel. She was wearing a loose White Satin gown. She never wore such gowns in their house.

Arushi: Hello? ASR..? You there?
Arnav (coming out of his thoughts): Yea.. I am here. Some network problem I guess.

Arushi could easily say he was lying and she had kind of guessed why?
Arushi: Lagta hai aap ki Network tower is little away from you.. ( I guess your Network tower is little away from you )

The moment Arushi said this a smile crept his lips and he got up from the Bed. It was better he walks to the Balcony then getting teased by his sister again.

Arnav: Did you go to College today?
Arushi: I did. But that's not important. Where did you take your wife?
Arnav (turning sideways again to see what Khushi was doing, she was still wiping her hair dry): Camel ride. ( his voice turned husky as he remembered every little moment with her during that ride)
Arushi: Wow.. She rode on a Camel? That's cool.
Arnav: WE rode.  ( he clarified)
Arushi was stunned to hear that.
Arushi: What? YOU too? OMG..ASR and on a Camel? Did you take a selfie? I want to see you on a Camel ASR..
Arnav: I am not good at selfies, you know that.
Arushi: I know ( she frowned)

Daadi gestured Arushi to pass the phone to her as well.
Arushi: Talk to Daadi. Wait.
Daadi: Hello Chotte.. How are you both doing?
Arnav: Good.
Daadi: I am happy that you and Khushi have started growing affection towards each other. Anyways, now me and Arushi wont disturb you both for long, it's night already. We will talk tomorrow.
Arushi (screaming on the phone): BYE ASR.. Good night.
Arnav: Good night.

Arnav disconnected the call and walked back in the room. There was a contentment on his face after talking to his little sister. I was checking my phone now, sitting at the bed edge. He sat next to me.

Khushi: I am finally relieved that the Event preps are on track. Prashant was telling me that there is going to be one surprise element in the Show? What is that ?
Arnav: Show.. family.. work.. inn sab ke alawa kuch baat karein? (Can we talk something other than this?)

I realised what he meant. His eyes were expressive enough to tell me that the differences we had cannot be erased if we talk about the world. We need to communicate about each other. I kept my phone aside.

Khushi: Let's play a game.
Arnav: Excuse me?

I could see the amusement in his eyes but I had to explain him it was not what he thought it is.
Khushi: Yes. I used to play this in school with my friends.
Arnav: Arushi alone is enough to make me play games, I need a wife Khushi.. not a second sister.

I felt like laughing over his complaint.

Khushi: It's interesting. It will help us know about each other more. Arnav without knowing each other how will we sort our differences? How will we come close?
Arnav : Aise.. !! ( he came closer to me) Two people can come close without even knowing each other better.

His proximity does affect me these days. I place my arms over his shoulder blades and lean slightly backwards.

Khushi: Okay.. Let's do this your way then.. Take me as you want!!

I close my eyes, giving in. Somehow my heart still says he wont use this opportunity. I have seen the sincerity in his eyes to make me his. And this was not the way he would use to get me. When he doesnt approach further, I open my eyes. He is still staring at me and obviously not in a wrong way.

Arnav: What's the game? ( he moves behind to lean at the headboard of the bed)

I smile and follow him to lean the same way.

Khushi: Sharing moments of your life. It's like filling a Autobiography book which we did in school.
Arnav: I never did that.
Khushi: Whatever. Are you in or not?
Arnav: In..

He dimmed the night lamp yet there was enough light wherein we could see each other.

Arnav: I will ask first.
I didnt deny, I should give him some liberty for even getting ready to play this with me.

Arnav: When were you first been proposed by a guy and how?

My jaw dropped. Was he interrogating me?
Arnav: dont worry.. I am not going to hit that man now. I dont have to, until you have decided to remain mine..
Khushi: (Sighed): I should have expected such question from you. Old habits dont go easily right?
Arnav: Are we playing this or not?
Khushi: Fine!! I was in school, some 8th standard. There was this boy who was my bench mate. His name was Suraj. One day before leaving back home, he gave me a paper. I asked him what it contained but he left without answering. I opened that paper and realised he had written I love you in it.

Arnav gritted his teeth.

Arnav: You should have smacked him the next day. Is that even an age to propose? Did he even know what girlfriend means?
Khushi: Will you keep poking like this in between? Let me finish, please.

I could sense his insecurity. Obviously he was my husband and he would never like even the thought of me being proposed by someone else.  I was kind of enjoying this.

Khushi: The next day I tied him a Rakhi before the entire class. I told him we are too young for all this and besides I was not interested in him.

Arnav was relieved.

Khushi: Poor guy.. He left the school after completing that year. I think he really liked me and couldnt bear that pain.
Arnav gave me a scorned look. He didnt wanted me to take side of that boy. Obviously.
Khushi: My turn. When was the first time you hit someone and why?
Arnav: At school and what do you mean by WHY? If I am mad at someone I will hit him.
Khushi: (sighed): Elaborate please.

He might not be a good story teller but tonight he will have to talk because I wanted to know about him.. Everything..

Arnav (taking a deep breath): I was in 5th Standard, My classmate Yogesh, he never liked Mathematics. So one day, just for fun, when Mrs Pinto, our Maths teacher was writing our homework on the Board, he removed a cracker from his pocket and burnt it under the Teacher's table.

I was horrified. Boys of that age can do such displeasing acts?

Arnav: I saw it on time, pushed the cracker away from the Table. It obviously still blasted but none of us got injured, not even Mrs Pinto.. Yogesh was angry at me that his plan failed, he pushed me. I retaliated by kicking him so hard that he hit his head on the table and fainted.

My jaw dropped.

Khushi: Then?
Arnav: Then what? Mr Ayush Raizada put me to Boarding after a month because he could only see Yogesh's pain, not the goodness in his son who saved his teaacher from getting hurt.

Poor boy, my heart literally ached for him. That must have been the time when Ayush Uncle already had married Amrita. Arnav had many bitter memories of his past, and this was one of them.

Khushi: You.. you should have explained your father what exactly happened.
Arnav: I tried. He never believed.

Before I could interrogate further on this incident of his life, he placed his palm over my lips.

Arnav: My turn.

I know he wont like to be digged futher on any personal topics, I accept it by a nod. He moves away his palm from my lips.

Arnav: Who helped you flee to San Fransisco?

I shudder and my eyes look revoltingly at him.
Arnav: Come on Khushi.. That's the motive of your game right? To clear things off, to know each other better? So answer me. Who helped you fleeing away from me?

I am still quiet. he pulls my chin up, raising my eyes to his level.

Arnav: I dont want to convince you why I asked this question out of all. It's just a one word reply. I wont ask your to explain it.

I hold his wrist and lowers his fingers from my chin.
Khushi: I already had the Visa done. But Viraj helped me with the tickets and some funds to .. ( I gulp) .. to settle down in the initial days at San Fransisco.
Arnav grits his teeth but he doesnt shout at me.
Arnav: How much funds?
Khushi: Few lakhs.
Arnav: Is that settled?
Khushi: Half.!! I intend to do that soon but..
Arnav: Leave it.. I will settle it out.

I am surprised at his willingness.

Khushi: No.. Why.. why would you do?
Arnav: Why not? You return it or me shouldnt matter now.
Khushi: No Arnav.. I..

Arnav holds my back neck and pulls me closer to give his final reply.

Arnav: I dont distrust you Khushi, not anymore. I even know you will pay him back but it might need little time considering you have just started working independently here. But until this due is cleared, somehow you will always be linked to that man and I dont want that. I want you to detach from him, from every way, soonest. I will send a cheque to him of the due amount and a Thank you note for helping you at your crucial time.

I am overwhelmed. Where at one instance I am little scared of his overpossessiveness, I also appreciate his ways of reducing my tensions. My eyes became moist. This man has really changed. Or may be he was always like this, it was only misunderstanding that had made him react in wrong way towards me. I have no reluctance of forgiving him and giving this marriage a chance. That's the least I could do to keep us both happy hereon. I wrap my arms around his neck, snuggling into him. He is again little surprised by my action but soon he draws me more close, inhaling deep at the crook of my neck. We stay like that for some seconds. I like this strong support he is giving me right now. I can already see my life shaping up again and this time I will leave no stone unturned to relieve Arnav Singh Raizada's pain too, which he has been living with from his childhood. He only needed a family which I will give him and ensure he will no longer crave for one. While I am still lost planning a fresh start with him, he whispers in my ears.

Arnav: You are Unpredictable these days.

I pull back from the hug to meet his eyes. He moves the hair strand off my face and tucks it behind the ear. I know on what context he said that. Till last night I had maintained a one arm distance from him on the bed. Tonight I am in his arms. Who knows tomorrow night how we might end up together? I chuckle and push him away.

Khushi: When are we going back home?
Arnav: Tomorrow evening's flight.
Khushi: Okay, then morning I need to do some shopping for Daadi, Arushi and few others. ( I purposely didnt give name specifications because those included his father, SG and Amrita Aunty too whom obviously Arnav was not okay for me to have much ties with )

He plainly noded not questioning me further and then closed his eyes to sleep. This is what I admired in him now a days. He was not very desperate for intimacy. He was waiting for me to respond and come forward. I turned the table lamp off and slept next to him.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 45

Khushi: You are not coming?

Next morning, I was fully ready to leave for Shopping, as decided but looked like Arnav Singh Raizada had business plans to fulfil.

Arnav: An urgent Video conferencing has come up.
I shook my head with a defeated look.
Khushi: I thought so. Work has always been your priority, even then.. even now..

My mind takes me back in the flashack when we were recently married and I demanded his attention. All he could give me that time was some harsh words and ignorance.

Arnav's eyes flared possessively at my comment. He reaches me in two long strides and clutches my arms.

Arnav: Stop throwing such allegations at me. If you want me to spend time with you, I will, doesnt matter if I have to end my Business for that.

His tone was quite determined.
Arnav: I have just started being noble towards you Khushi, dont push me back to that ruthless form.

He might have become sober to me, but that anger in him is still intact. It wont leave him ever. I gently rub his chest over the white shirt  he is wearing.

Khushi: Calm down. I will manage to do the shopping alone. You finish your call.

He grits his teeth. I suspected he should be okay with my decision. But doesnt look like.
Arnav: If you had to agree, why make a fuss of it then?
Khushi: I have a right to complain my husband what I need from him and what not. Dont snatch that right from me.

My defending lines make him shut his mouth forever over this topic. He holds both my wrist and pulls me for a hug. My heart began to pound as he caresses my back, his fingers creating havoc on my skin which is exposed at the waist.

Arnav: I know you are capable of handling yourself alone, but still, be careful out there and come back soon. ( he whispers in my ears )

I love this concern which he keeps showering over me time to time. I nod and then with great difficulty, he pulls back from the hug and allows me to leave. In all this, I forget to carry my Cell phone along. It is lying on the bed and I realise it only after reaching half way from the Hotel. I dial Arnav again from the Driver's number and inform him to keep the phone in Silent mode or else the incoming calls on my Phone might disturb his Video conference. He agrees.

*******************

After 2 long hours of non stop talking, Arnav Singh Raizada finally finished the Video conference with his Client. He shut the laptop and stretched his arms in air only to find Khushi's mobile vibrating on the bed. He picked the phone and as usual was frustrated to see the caller name "SG". A feeling of helplessness ran inside his veins. Why did SG call her? Are they in talking terms daily? Has SG already revealed his idenity to her? And if yes, has he also declared anything about their deal on how he kept using his father in law's signatures in getting things done for him, using Khushi as a pawn? The call was disconnected but it started ringing the second time. Arnav didnt ignore. He answered the call but didnt speak.

SG: Khushi?  No phone calls from you these days. Where are you Beta?
Arnav: Jaipur.. ( he responded without any delay)

Hearing Arnav's voice on the other end SG felt stressed.

Shashi: What is her phone doing with you ? Or should  I say its you who is not allowing her to call me?
Arnav felt frustrated.
Arnav: Stop bonding with her SG.. You are creating trouble for both of us.

He was right. By growing the bond between him and his daughter Khushi, he was only creating more room for her to question about her own identity. SG felt helpless the next instant and his voice turned low.

SG: I cant help ASR. The more I tried avoiding meeting her, fate got us closer somehow.
Arnav: You could have changed your fate earlier SG, when Khushi's mother was alive and wanted you to give your relationship a name. It's too late now. I am warning you again to stay away from my wife. Stop calling her.

With that warning, he raised his eyes, looking at the mirror, only to find Khushi standing behind him with confused eyes. He disconnected the call abruptly and turned around. She dropped her shopping bags. Her eyes questioning him, he already felt like he was losing this battle.

Arnav (trying to hold her arm): Khushi? When did you come?

The moment he touched her, she snapped out, pushing his arm away.

Khushi: What is SG to me?

A lump formed in Arnav's throat at that question. She was already in tears and he was able to understand that she had already heard everything, she just wanted a confirmation, thats all.
Arnav: Khushi .. listen to me first..
Khushi: Is he my father? ( Words came out of her throat with utmost difficulty. )
Arnav: Khushi look..
Khushi: Tell me ARNAV.. Is SG my FATHER? ( she yelled )
Arnav: HAAN!! ( Yes)

He didnt hold back. There was nothing he could do to hide this further from her. Khushi felt frustrated. She stumbled at the bed edge and sat on it. Father? Her father? How is that possible? She was been told that her father died years ago, even before she was born. Was it all a lie? Who would lie to this extent? And why? Was she not his legitimate daughter? Was her mother never married to Shashi Gupta? Tears rolled down her eyes as she digested this major truth. Arnav kneeled down at her feet.

Arnav: Khushi... Stop crying.. ( he tried to wipe her tears but she pushed his fingers not letting him touch her)
Khushi : When did you know ? ( she urged for a response)

Arnav remained quiet without making any movements towards her. There was no point in consoling her, she wont let him do that, not until he answers all her questions. But if he tells her the entire truth, will she forgive him? Khushi clutched his shirt in anger and pulled him.

Khushi: Answer me Arnav..Since when did you know this truth about my identity? 
Arnav: Before our marriage. ( he softly replied)

She looked shocked at him. He knew this from such a long time? And he never opened his mouth?

Khushi: So this was the missing piece.. behind you marrying me.. You wanted him to do favours on your business? Marrying me was no less than a Deal for you. Otherwise even after knowing my past with Viraj, why would you want to marry me in the first place? Isnt it?

Damn! She was intelligent enough to link all the dots and find answers to all her queries.

Khushi: I .. I cant believe this.. You just didnt play with my emotions, my feelings, but you also gambled with my identity? My dignity?
Arnav felt defeated. Yes it was true. He did all that.
Khushi: All this while you used me no less than a Pawn to grow your Business, to satisfy your Financial needs? Why Arnav? Why did you do this to me? ( her grip on his shirt tightened as she shook him with rage)

A loaded silence filled the room.

Khushi: I am such a fool to think you have genuinely grown feelings for me now. This is nothing but a few more calculative steps from your end to fulfil additional needs from SG.
Arnav groaned in anger.
Arnav: NO.. It's not.
Khushi: Why should I believe you?

The tables were turned. Earlier she was the one to witness his distrust, now it was him. What kind of game was destiny playing with him? When he hated her thinking she was a two timing, she was trying to gain his trust and now when she had already consumed his mind and soul, she was stepping away, only because he chose to hide her father's name from her? Was this start of his redemption?

Arnav: (cupping her cheeks strongly): Yes I manipulated everything, but not after I came to know you were innocent. Trust me Khushi.

Khushi felt devastated hearing that word "TRUST" from him. Fresh Tears pooled once again in her eyes.

Khushi: (moving his palms off her cheeks): Dont use this word anymore Arnav. It feels like Venom to me.

She got up from the bed, pushing him away. He gritted his teeth. He saw her picking the Shopping bags from the floor and dumping them in her Trolley bag. They had a flight back to Delhi in few hours. She dragged her trolley to the floor only to be stopped by Arnav again.

Arnav: It's too early to leave. Our flight is at evening.
Khushi once again shrugged his arm.
Khushi: Who said we are travelling together? I cant stand you close to me even for a minute.

What the hell! Did she just say that? Anger stormed within him the next instant as he saw her walking to the door with her Trolley. He strode to the door and before she could open it fully, he pushed it close again. His arm blocking her exit.

Arnav: Dont!! Things will turn out more ugly if you step out of this room alone Khushi. ( he warned her with a familiar rage like he did in the past)
Khushi: Nothing can be more uglier than me staying next to you.

That was a huge blow to his recently mellowed down heart. She walked off that room, leaving him in grief. They had just started to bond again. This shouldnt have happened. Within few minutes he dialed Aman Mathur and told her to prepone his flight. He cannot stay here in Khushi's absence, besides he had to convince her somehow. If she thinks he was going to let her leave, she was wrong. This time and every second from now on, she will never be free from him. He tried calling her number but she never answered. He left few messages too but she didnt reply. The truth of her identity shouldnt have come out in this form. But what was he thinking? How long was he supposed to hide this from her? Some day he would have to tell her who her father was and what ties he had with Shashi Gupta which made him win most of his deals easily. She would have been equally hurt that time, like she was today. So whatever he planned to face later, he had to face today. But he wont let this distance linger between them for too long. He will walk again to her, claim her and ensure he wins her back forever this time.

*******************

His flight landed in Delhi and according to Aman, Khushi had landed here an hour back. She had taken the next immediate flight whereas Arnav took some time to compose his anger and then check out from Jaipur. Hence the delay.  He returned back home and the first thing he did was enter his bedroom to see what Khushi was doing. But to his dismay she was not here. He came out in the lobby calling her name but she didnt answer. Where the hell was she? That's when Hari Prakash came to Arnav.

HP: Arnav Bhaiyaa.. Khushi Bhabhi toh ghar nahi aayi.. (Arnav Bhaiyaa.. Khushi Bhabhi didnt come home)

Now that surprised him. She didnt return home? Where else can she go? If she had landed before him, she should have been here much earlier. He dialed her number again but she didnt respond. Where the hell was she ? He let out a frustrated sigh realising where she can be. He asked the driver to pass the Car keys. He will drive himself to get his wife back. If she thinks staying away from him was easy, she was wrong and he will prove that today.

*******************

Khushi had just settled herself in her Nani's house, the same house in Laxmi Nagar which was her Mayka, but even after spending so many years in this house still it looked unfamiliar to her today and that was because her husband Arnav had got it renovated. Fortunately when she was given the keys of this house by Arnav, the last time they visited this house after renovation. She can no longer stay with Arnav, not after knowing how he cheated her all the time. The base of their marriage itself was nothing but a deal which he had made with her father. Why was all this happening? Every man that had entered in her life hurted her, be it her father, Viraj and now Arnav. It was insane on her part to even think of them. She cuddled the pillow of the Sofa and tried to control her sobs when she heard the door knock. Who can come here? Was it some of their neighbors who saw her entering the house and thought of checking on her? Or.. was it someone else? She tried not to give a heed to the door knock but the second knock took her breathe away because after the knock the door was pushed open by the duplicate keys. Her heart thumped as she saw Arnav Singh Raizada walking inside the house, looking for her.

_______________________________________________________________________________



Part 46

Arnav's dark gaze on me was enough to shook away my breath for few seconds. He finally found me. I still keep my eyes locked with his. I can read the pain in them, probably he was looking for me madly at every possible location he suspected I would go. But even then I never expected him to find me so early. In three strides he reaches me and before I could get up from the Couch, he is leaning over me, with his arms on either sides of the Sofa, pinning me between them. I dont flinch. Somehow since the time I had started bonding with him, I am not scared of him anymore.
Arnav:
(looking deeply in my eyes): Someone has said it right.. The first place a woman goes after fighting with her husband, is her Mayka ( maternal house)

I dont give any reaction to him. His eyes tell me the story of his betrayal, the way he used me as a Pawn for his Business profits. I push him away and get up from the Couch, trying to walk away. Soon he catches hold of my arm in rage.

Arnav: STOP!!

His hold on my wrist is hard and I shut my eyes to bear that pain.

Arnav: Get your bags, we are going back home. ( he commands)

Fury instigates me again as I hear it. I turn around and shrug his hold from my wrist.

Khushi: I am not going anywhere Arnav. And definately not with you.
He had kind of expected my answer so the moment I finish it, he clutches my upper arms, pulling me close.
Arnav: Biwi ho meri.. Aur humesha rahogi.(You are and will remain as my wife forever).. Your place is beside me, not here. You get that?

I try to struggle but fail.

Khushi: You cannot bully me again. I said I am not going anywhere. ( I give him again a stern reply)

I see him gritting his teeth at my denial.

Arnav: DOnt make me force you Khushi.
His challenge irritates me all the more.
Khushi: What will you do? Pick me in arms, carry me to your car and push me inside ? Try doing it and you will see how bad it hurts when a woman kicks a man.

My response should have irked him more but instead I find him smirking. His hold loosens on my arms. He leaves my arms and slides one of it over my waist, drawing me further closer. NOW.. I do shiver!!

Arnav: You look no less than a Tigress when you fight with me.
I feel lost for some seconds .. in his talk.. in his web..!! But then his previous deeds again opens my eyes.

Khushi: Then you must have heard that an injured tigress is dangerous. Go away Arnav.. I really am in no mood to come back.  I feel used!!

This again makes him lose his mood.

Arnav: USED? How used? (his anger was at its peak).. If I had to use you, I would have done it long ago. All I did was getting benefits from your father and what is so wrong in that? Every Father in law in that position would have assisted his son in law like he helped me.
Khushi: There is still a difference .. He didnt help you with all his Will. YOU BLACKMAILED HIM USING ME in between.!! That's what Hurts me Arnav.. How could you ?What did you think I am? A commodity? To keep using whenever and wherever you need?

He was way too frustrated at my harsh words but so be it. He also was not showering honey from his mouth.

Arnav: I cant believe this!! You are supporting him over me?
Khushi: I am not supporting either of you. In my eyes you both have done equally wrong. My father never existed for me and now so do you. ..

That's it. His anger touched the highest cloud again. He pinned me to the wall behind.

Arnav: That man never gave your mother a proper relationship status to be called as your father, so whatever you think about him, I am not bothered. But I have always wanted you dammit!! Even when I misundertood you about Viraj I was so damn arrogant in not breaking our ties. So now when I know you are innocent, when we have just started bridging the gap between us, you think I will ever let you go? ( he paused to see the confused look on my face).. In your dreams Khushi..

I can see the seriousness over his face in whatever he just said. I know he will never leave me. But right now I am not in a position to forgive him either. His anger cools off again and he cups my cheeks with all warmth.

Arnav: Khushi.. look.. I know you are hurt.. I wanted to tell you about all this, but I couldnt. I was scared to lose you.
I slowly move his palms away from my cheeks, a lone tear rolls from my eye.

Khushi: You have already lost me Arnav. I could have still lived with the fact that you hide my father's identity from me, but I cannot forget your selfishness by blackmailing him to do favours on your Business. I cant!!

I push him gently away to create a space to walk away, he doesnt stop me. I almost reach the couch when I hear him again, from behind.

Arnav: Is that your final call?
I stop and reply without turning around.
Khushi: Yes!!

He walks to me and turns me around. There is no longer warmth in his eyes, rage and the feeling of being ignored have replaced it.

Arnav: I might have stopped enforcing my demands on you Khushi but I havnt forgot them. It has always been a challenge winning you back. Play whatever nasty games you want to play with me to avoid our togetherness, I promise to play back harder this time. I will make you bend towards my desire for you and this time forever.

His words shook my heart. What is that supposed to mean? Whatever it was, he will cross any lines to prove his words. I dont even know if I had that much of strength left within me to fight back. He gives me one last look before leaving. There is no anger in his expressions, no remorse or no coldness that I am not going with him. All I could read in his eyes right now was the desperation to WIN me back and I dont know to what extent he will play this game to end it forever.

Once he is gone, I close the door again and collapse on floor. I have no energy left within me. I feel hollow. Even after giving birth to such strong feelings for my husband, I feel cheated by him. Will I ever recover from this fact that SG.. Shashi Gupta is my father? There was so much love and liking I had for that man in the past few days, but his identity and relationship with me broke it all. I feel disgust to call him my father. The man who never gave my mother a respected life can never win my love. I will never forgive him. Never!!

********************

Arnav stormed into the farm house late at night. The rejection from Khushi for returning back with him had killed all his senses tonight. He opened the Alcohol bottle and gulped the fluid rapidly inside his throat, continously. Only after finishing two big bottles, he felt satisfied. He threw the bottle down on the floor, breaking it into pieces and then screamed aloud his wife's name with pain..

"KHUSSSSHHHHHHHHIIIIIII"

Every servant inside shuddered at his behaviour and that loud tone. No one dared to pacify him. They could understand easily that something terrible had happened between the husband-wife which is why Arnav was in this state tonight. Hari Prakash immediately gave a call to Raizada house. He had always been a communicator between the happenings of this house to that family, only to Daadi though. He explained Arnav's present condition to Subhadra who got equally worried what suddenly went wrong between the two and planned to come at the Farm house that same night. But she knew her presence will not affect Arnav, neither she will be able to control him alone. Should she tell this to her son, Ayush? Or may be first talk to Khushi and check with her what went wrong ? She could feel terrible already. Just few days back only she was seeing the relationship developing between her grandson and his wife. She was happy that finally Arnav was with the right person, who can take care of him. But looked like it was too soon to predict that way. She will have to fix things between them again. Until then she can never find peace.

********************

When I woke up the next morning, I realised that I slept on the Sofa the whole night. No wonder my eyes were pluffy due to less sleep and also there were enough dark circles to prove how tired and exhausted I was. I scanned the house, it felt like I was staying in some desserted place. I didnt belong here. All these months when I was in San Fransisco, I had taken it to be my next home now. And when I had to return back to Delhi, stay in the Farm house with Arnav, I felt foreign to be around him. But soon that mindset changed as I started exploring his nature. I had just started adopting that house to be mine and Arnav's little den that this incident happened. The truth was right before my eyes and it looked like I lost everything again.. My house.. my family.. my husband .. my motive... my aspirations.. my soul!!

There was a gentle knock at the door which got me back into reality. Can it be Arnav again? I am not having enough strength to entertain him again. There were two more knocks. If it had been Arnav, he had a duplicate key already of this house, he would have easily came inside like he did yesterday. So it must be someone else. I quickly open the door and find Daadi standing there with a confused expressions seeing my state. The moment I see her, I hug her and weep.

It doesnt take me long enough to explain her the entire situation. She is shocked to know I am SG's daughter. I feel terrible thinking what she might consider me now? I was afterall an illegitimate child. The one who was enforced on the man who probably never wanted me to be born. But Daadi doesnt show any signs of neglecting me, she takes me into an embrace and kisses my forehead.

Daadi: Poor child.. You had to go through so much Khushi. I cant even imagine this for anyone else, how have you lived this fact?

I have no answers. I am still searching for them.

Daadi: And I never thought Chotte was using your relationship for his own benefits. That's why he was so much adamant to keep you as his wife forever. Ohh God, he has broke my trust as well. No wonder you cannot forgive him. ( she pauses for a few seconds to give another thought) But Khushi.. Where is this all leading now? Has he shown any signs of being sorry for what he did? Is he repenting at least now? Is that why he never told you this after things started settling between you two, because he was scared of losing you ?

I nod.

Khushi: So what Daadi? That still doesnt make him sane. I am not going to go back to him. Who gave him the right to play with my feelings, my emotions like this?

Daadi was understanding but obviously she was worried for both of us.
Daadi: I think you should talk to him again and try to fix this Khushi.
Khushi: Never ( I adamantly respond and get up from the sofa) He has hurt me, and this time my wounds are not going to heal sooner.

She gets up too and caresses my head.

Daadi: I understand. But where is this leading to now? He is yearning for you there, you are isolating yourself from him and others, this will take you both nowhere but in deep darkness. I cant see you both in pain Khushi. What will I answer your Grandmother (Nani) when I die?


I immediately stop her from speaking further.

Khushi: I am not going to plunge in darkness Daadi. I might have lost my strength but this is nothing new. This has happened to me before and everytime I have again risen and taken a lead of my life. I just need your blessings.
Daadi smiled happily.
Daadi: My blessings are always with you.

She hugged Khushi. She was confident Khushi will find her way but what about Arnav? She cannot see him in that state either. Will he be alright? The next thing she had to do was find what the situation was there at the Farm house.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 47

It was one terrible night for Arnav Singh Raizada to spend alone in his bedroom, again, after all these months when Khushi had eloped to San Fransisco. He could still sustain that pain earlier because he didnt desired her so desperately like he did now. Every second that ticked on the clock, made his heart beat faster. The room was a mess. There were four empty bottles of alcohol lying around in the bedroom.  The Duvet was down, beside the bed. There were few broken glass pieces too at the recliner. And most importantly, there were Khushi's clothes all on the bed, where Arnav was seeing hugging a few, in his sleep. It was obvious he was missing her presence beside him and hence chose to cuddle her clothes.

Daadi who had just stepped in, scanned the very displeasing state of the room and her grandson who looked equally messed up. He opened his eyes as she pushed aside the curtains of the French doors and forced the beam of sunlight to fall on him.

"Get out Hari Prakash" he screamed, not knowing it was Daadi who did this. Hearing no response from HP, Arnav slowly turned around. Daadi was just few feet away from the bed, watching him in dismay. He rubbed his eyes and sat on the bed, pushing Khushi's clothes away.

Arnav: What are you doing here early morning?
Daadi didnt utter a word. She passed him a drink to take off his hangover. He sipped it and placed back on the table.

Daadi: What is all this Chotte? What have you done to yourself? Look around you..
Arnav didnt needed proofs of his own deeds.
Arnav: I am fine Daadi.
Daadi: Fine? This is what you call FINE? ( she angrily asked but soon got all her patience again).

She sat next to him and placed her arm over his hand.

Daadi: I met Khushi today morning.

His eyes met Daadi's and she could easily see pain in them.

Daadi: She told me everything Arnav.. including the fact that she is Shashi Gupta's daughter. I am shocked. ( tears pooled in Daadi's eyes remembering Khushi's present state of mind).. But what you did with her cannot be justified either.

Arnav tried not to intervene, he allowed his Daadi to speak completely what she felt.

Daadi: You kept her identity hidden for such a long time? And for what? To keep getting profited by that? Taking additional favours from your father in law?
Arnav: Yes. I did. So what? You will also leave me ? Do that.!! I dont care anymore.

His straight forward reply shook Daadi's control.

Arnav: She is judging me by my past Daadi and that is what I dont like. I know I did a mistake by hiding all that from Khushi but its done now. I cant change it. All I want her is to understand that I am with her. I know she is in pain. I want to share her pain Daadi. Ask her to let me in. Ask her to lower the walls that she has self created between me and her and allow me to make things fine again. Can you do that?

Daadi had no words to reply but she was happy that her Grandson wanted to correct things.

Daadi: I can only advise her, which I did today morning but it didnt work. Now it's upto you to handle these situations. If you truly desire her, want her in your life, then win her back Arnav. Win her in such a way that she will never get away from you again in this lifetime.

Arnav was stunned.

Daadi (cupping his cheeks): You love playing challenges right? Take this as one and win it. For yours and Khushi's bright and happy future.

Arnav was totally impressed with this level of understanding which Daadi put in his brain. Yes she was right. If he had to get Khushi back, he will have to work himself. No third person can mend their relationship. He gave Daadi a tight hug. This little advise from Daadi was enough to get him started.

*****************

The first thing Khushi did after Daadi left was to call up Murthy from Jashn and inform that she wanted to meet him urgently. She dressed up and then quickly rushed to Jashn office to see him.

Murthy: Replacement? At this stage? Can I ask you what is the reason behind this Khushi ?

Khushi was speechless. What will she tell her Boss ? That she didnt wanted to work closely with her husband anymore? This one truth will lead to series of more questions and it might hurt her more in the process of answering those.

Murthy: Look Khushi.. The Event at AR is just a week away. At this stage we cannot replace you and put someone else to handle it. If you want to take a break then take one after this Event is over.
Khushi smiled weakly. She didnt wanted any break from work, infact work will keep her busy and she can forget all her personal worries. What bothered her was working for one more week in AR office but looked like she had no choice. After much efforts she had managed to get a Job here in Delhi, she cannot lose it. Not because of her personal life issues. She saw Prashant's missed calls on her mobile from AR. She had to get back there and start her work.

It took her another 30 minutes for her to reach AR office. She was not expecting to meet Arnav. But she just hoped he doesnt create a scene here before everyone. Why should they give a chance to public for discussing about their personal problems ?

Prashant: Khushi where were you ? You are late by one hour. This never happened. Is all okay?
Khushi: Sorry Prashant.. I had to go to Jashn and meet my Boss there.
Prashant : Anyways, today we have to get the Mock Shoot done. Let's see if we are able to cope up with that.

She nodded and was about to leave with him when Aman Mathur stopped them.

Aman: Hi.. sorry to disturb you but Khushi, ASR wants to see you in his cabin.

Khushi fisted her fingers. She doesnt want to see him. If she sees him she will be unable to control her anger which she had been controlling before others.

Khushi: Now?
Aman: Yes.. And make it fast because he has some conferences to attend in 30 minutes.

Saying that Aman left to set the Conference room ready. Khushi was still in a dilemma if she should obey this order or not.
Prashant: Hello? Where are you lost? Go and see ASR until then I will handle here. Go..

She couldnt deny. She walked in the direction of Arnav's cabin hoping to keep the conversation strictly professional. She knocked the cabin door and heard him asking to get inside. She stepped in, fixing her eyes on the floor during her first few steps towards his table. Arnav Singh Raizada was sitting on the chair, watching her intensely. He could feel himself breathing again after seeing her. There were some dark circles under her eyes, obviously she didnt sleep last night. All he wanted to do right now was reach her and take her in arms. That's when Khushi met his eyes. She involuntarily read his face. His eyes were swollen. That means he got heavily drunk last night. And why not? His guilt must have forced him to get overdrunk. It was so easy for men like him to try reducing the pain by consuming alcohol. But does that pain really go away ?

Arnav: (leaning comfortably on his chair behind): AR doesnt like anyone coming late to work.

So he was being Professional.. Good, she thought.

Arnav: So what happened at Jashn? Murthy denied replacing you? ( there was a smirk on his face as if he already knew what her next step would be after their fight)

Now this came as a total surprise to her. How did he knew she had been to Jashn and talked about her replacement?

Arnav: (getting up from his chair and reaching her): You couldnt give me one chance, at least give 7 precious days of yours to this event.

She raised her eyes and met his. Pain is all she could read. But she didnt care. He doesnt deserves a chance because chances are given for people who do mistakes. He had done a Sin and she can never forgive him easily. But Yes, she had given her 7 precious coming days to this event and she will make it successful no matter what issues they both had between them.

Khushi: I should get back to work.

She took a turn and he smoothly gave her way to leave, without touching her even once. Only he knew how much it ached to keep his hands off her. When she came out of his cabin she took a deep breath. She hadnt expected this conversation to be so formal. Though she read immense pain in his tone and eyes, he didnt plead her, force her to come back to him. Was that normal? No.. Nothing can be normal when it comes to Arnav Singh Raizada. She composed herself to start with her work.

******************

The day went very hectic for me and I hardly got any opportunity to feel disturbed by my personal life issues. When I finally wrapped up my work and packed to leave, I saw Arushi coming inside the office. What was Arushi doing here? Does she know about our fight? But if she did, she wouldnt smile so much. Arushi was about to leave for Arnav's cabin but since she saw me, she came to me first.

Arushi: Hi Bhabhi..

I was amazed. Did Arushi just call me "Bhabhi"? All these months she only termed me as Mrs Raizada.

Arushi (reading my expressions): I .. I hope I can call you Bhabhi..

Yes.. technically she can but personally I dont feel like her Bhabhi, not after what her brother did to me.

Khushi: Of course..
Arushi: How was your Jaipur trip? ASR promised me for some selfies. .Did you guys click? Can I see them?

She was so much excited about our trip.

Khushi: No.. We.. We couldnt click many.. Just a few..
Arushi: I knew it.. ( she angrily replied)..Anyways.. Where is ASR? Is he still working or leaving home with you?

I am stuck. SO she doesnt know anything about our fight. And it is better that way. The girl is too young to know our complications. Besides I remember Arnav asking me once to keep Arushi away from our fights. We had been following that even when I hated him earlier.

Arushi: Bhabhi? Where are you lost? Are you and Bhai leaving for the day?

"Yes we are" came a quick reply from Arnav who was now striding towards us. His presence around me again messed with my brain. Arushi hugged him and then he stood next to me. He was doing the same, pretending things to be fine between us.

Arushi: ASR.. I missed you so much. I thought after returning back you will come to see me first ..
Arnav: I wished Sweetheart but you know how much busy schedule I have these days.. Couldnt make it.

I try not to intervene. The soonest Arushi leaves from here, I can move to my house.

Arushi: Whatever!! Can I have dinner with you guys ?( she asked in excitement)

Both me and Arnav became speechless. I cant go back to that house and not fake being alright, more than this.

Arnav: Why not? Lets have dinner together, hai naa Khushi? ( he turns to me and I give him a cold look )
Arushi: Great. I will inform Mom that I will be with you guys for Dinner. Excuse me..

She moved aside to dial her mother. I take this opportunity to deny Arnav.

Khushi: Is this your plan ? To make me come home?
Arnav: You think so ? Do I really need someone like Arushi to make you come back to me? ( his tone is as cold as mine) ..

I look away, trying to understand what I should do. Accept the offer or reject.

Arnav: (holding my elbow and making me turn to him again): I want Arushi out of this Khushi. I have told you that before as well.
Khushi: (gritting teeth): I know and that is why I have been bearing all this.
Arnav: Then do it for some more time. ( he orders)

Before I could retort, Arushi was back and she held my hand.

Arushi: Let's go?

I tried to hold my breath still while nodding a Yes to her. I just couldnt deny her. Not when she was being so sweet to me.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 48

It felt terrible to come back to the same house, and behave like nothing happened. This is that one trait I hated myself for. I dont easily deny people when they ask me for a favour. I dont like to see them disheartened because of me. Just like I couldnt deny Arushi for tonight. I was cooking for her in Raizada's farm house and she and Arnav were busy in the Living room chatting. I could hear Arushi's giggles as she enjoyed the little talks with her brother. I hold the hot vessel and come out.

Khushi: Dinner is ready.

Arnav gives me a stare and then he and Arushi makes way to the table. I am serving.

Arushi: Nice aroma Bhabhi.. Wish I could eat such delicious dinner every day. Should I come here for few days ASR? To stay?

NO!! She cant. I wanted to scream and say that but I didnt,  I quietly kept serving. Arnav looks at me once and then replies.

Arnav: Ask your Bhabhi if she is okay. I wont mind!!

There he does the same again. His diplomatic answers always lands the ball in my court and I am unable to decide what I should say.

Arushi: Why will she mind? Will you Bhabhi?
I am speechless.
Arnav: Aru.. I think you should come here after the Fashion Event which we have next week. Obviously the coming 7 days are very busy for me and Khushi. So, even if you stay here, we wont really be there to spend more time with you.

I took a deep sigh at his explanation.  I was already exhausted mentally thinking. Arushi agrees to what Arnav says and then we eat our Dinner quietly. After that I plan to get into the bedroom and pack few clothes of mine. Since I had taken only a few while going to Jaipur and I directly moved in to Nani's house from there, I hardly had any clothes to wear. Now since I am here, it was better I pack a few. While Arnav and Arushi are busy again in the Living room, I make my way upstairs.

The sight before me as I open the bedroom door startles me. Few of my clothes are lying lifeless on the bed. WHY?

"They are filling your place, beside me" his response comes immediately after.

I turn around, Arnav is here. Why? Why did he follow me? I dont pay him much attention but walk to the bed and pull all my clothes from there.

Arnav: Dont vaccate them from here Khushi. ( he commands)

I get annoyed and turn back to answer him.

Khushi: Why shouldnt I ? They are my clothes , I can take them wherever I want. ( I snapped)
Arnav( in an argumentive tone): Watch your tone. Dont unlock the worst out of  me right now when Arushi is here.

His warnings have always been painful and scary for me. I keep collecting my dressses and put them in the bag. He doesnt stop, I try to see him once. The way he was looking at me got goosebumps all over my skin. His eyes were never that dark and dangerous unlike today. I try to avoid my gaze and keep searching the closet to see if I missed anything important. In few seconds I feel his breath on my shoulder blade and neck. He is standing that close. He turns me around, holding my arm. I obey him. Our eyes meet.

Arnav: Staying at Nani's house was your decision.. But you dont look happy. ( his voice turns husky)

How could he guess that so easily ?Yes I am not happy. I feel lonely there. But I cant settle with him either. He has hurt me. This long break I take to decipher my own thoughts doesnt make me realise when his lips touch my forehead and kisses me there . I feel electrified. Our noses touch, our eyes gaze at each other in the most dangerous way. If there is immense anger in mine, there is uncountable desires in his. What the hell was happening?

Arnav: Laut aao Khushi.. ( he whimpers)

I feel accute heat generating in my body by the way he was reacting. His thumb grazed over my lower lip , parting it. Why the hell was I giving in? I didnt know any of it. My mind had stopped reasoning. I felt his breath colliding with mine. The wife inside me was fully aware of what was coming next and the woman inside me was trying to remind me how he had hurt me in this entire adventure of my real identity. Finally the woman inside me won over the wife and I pushed him away with a force. I run out of the room, clutching my bag. If I dont leave this place right now, I would end up hurting myself more in the process.

*******************

It felt horrible not to have her beside him, again, tonight. He gulped the second bottle of alcohol and leaned back on the headboard. He will make her pay for these sleepless and restless nights, when they both reconcile again. Yes,  he has full faith in himself.  He will win her back and this time forever.

There was a knock at the door which partially opened and Shashi Gupta entered in.  Arnav's blood boiled seeing him here.  But he didnt react that way.  Shashi was still regaining his health after the sudden heart attack but he couldnt refrain himself from coming here and confronting to his daughter Khushi.  He had taken a call finally to accept his daughter before the world. When he saw no trace of Khushi in the room he asked Arnav about her.

Shashi: Where is Khushi?

Arnav clenched his jaw.

Arnav : Chali gayi ( she lefy ) ( he painfully replied) Your daughter is not here.  She left this house. 

Shashi was shocked. Left this house? 

Arnav slowly got up from the bed,  his feet stumbled due to the alcohol effect but he still didnt need any support.  He stood straight.

Arnav: Its all your fault.  You shouldnt have called us that day in Jaipur.  Everything was going so smooth. We both were coming closer. She had started trusting me SG.. Its all your fault.  I wont forgive you.

He was about to fall when Shashi held his arm.  Arnav shrugged him off.

Arnav: You could never give Khushi's mother the happiness she deserved and now you snatched your daughter's joy too. She hates me because of you. 

Pool of tears formed in Arnav's eyes which Shashi noticed too.  Shashi had never seen ASR so vulnerable.  And he never imagined it would be for his daughter. He always thought Arnav troubles Khushi. But it didnt look so. This man had so much desire for Khushi.

Arnav: Actually know what?  The fault is mine.  I was blind for power,  for growing my Business.  Wish I never had any deal with you  SG.  Wish I had got the opportunity to reveal Khushi about her identity myself.  She would have been beside me today. I know she would have still been hurt. But I would have comforted her. I would have given her immense happiness that she would have forgotten every pain of her life. Its my fault.. Its all my fault.

He collapsed on the bed and dozed off.  Shashi had tears in his eyes too.  What had he done?  He just didnt play with his daughters identity but he spoiled her marriage too.  How on earth was he going to rectify this? 

***************

The next day I had decided not to fall weak. It was this weakness which makes him take advantage of me. I have to show Arnav, I am happy with this decision of mine, to stay in Nani's house. I walk inside the Office premises. I already see a few people gossiping at the corner. I dont care to listen what. I just walk ahead. Prashant meets me at his cabin and smiles weakly.

Prashant: Hi.. Uhh.. You okay?
Khushi: Yes. Why? Shouldnt I be okay?
Prashant chuckles and then nods at me.
Prashant :Lets start. We have again a lot to do today .Did you see those designs of the Ramp I sent you last night ?( he gets back to his normal working attitude)

It had totally skipped my mind to check those designs. I didnt even login on my laptop last night. I was so much messed up. Especially after what Arnav did to me last night in his bedroom. Damn!!

Prashant waits for a few seconds to get my answer and when I dont, he sighs.

Prashant: Never mind .I thought you wouldnt have time for this. Afterall there is so much going in your personal life.

That catches my ear.

Khushi: Excuse me? What do you mean by that?
Prashant: Ooops.. SOrry.. I didnt mean to hurt you . Lets forget it.
Khushi: Wait Prashant. I need to know why you said something like that? Where did it come from?

Prashant gets caught now. He knows he cannot leave without answering me that.

Prashant :The whole office is talking about it.. That you are no longer staying with ASR.. Something has gone wrong and then may be you guys are planning to seperate ?

Khushi: WHAT ?? ( I yell aloud)

Who spread this ? And I very well know its not a rumour. But will it affect me if people around me keep talking about this? It should not. I am here only for the next 6 days until the Event. After that I will no longer be in AR . Why should I care then?

Prashant: Khushi ? Are you okay?

I come out of my reverie and nod positively.

Khushi: Lets get the work done.

He looks at me hoping I would say something about it. Whether that was a rumour or the truth but since I ignore it, he gets his answer. It is true.

******************

I am at the Level 5 of the AR building talking to a Team about the Ramp design changes when Arnav walks in there.  We catch each other's glimpse and the way he treated me last night while I was packing my clothes, flashes before my eyes. Had I not pushed him off, today I wouldnt have been able to face myself again. I lower my gaze and continue talking to the team. He focusses on some VIP guest of his whom he was attending until now. The team I was talking to leaves and I am alone at the elevator. Arnav stops beside me for the same in some time. I flinch.

Arnav: I needed your signatures on an agreement.

I dont understand what he was saying.
Khushi: What agreement?
Arnav: Come to my Cabin, I will
Khushi: NO ( I dont let him speak further)

I could see his inner body becoming stiff at my straight forward denial. He still controls his anger and explains me what is needed.

Arnav: I think we have already talked about this in Jaipur. I am repaying Viraj whatever was left out to be paid. And in turn taking a Non disclosure agreement from him that it's over officially.

Now I remember. I turn again to meet his eyes.

Khushi: I had agreed to it then. But the present situations dont let me use you for the repayment.

The elevator stops and the doors open. I step inside, he follows .The moment it closes, he pins me to the walls of the elevator. I am amused by his reactions.

Arnav: I am not renegotiating on this topic. What was decided earlier, stays that way. Sign the agreement and set Viraj out of our matter. Do you understand?

I gulp. I am about to reply back but he again continues, not leaving me a chance to deny.

Arnav: Re-pay me after you earn that money in the coming years. But right now lets settle him.

I obviously would have repaid Arnav in the coming years, its not that. But at our present situation I dont wish to use his money or favour.

Arnav: And as it is.. the elections are coming. He is running out of Campagning money. ( he adds genuinely)

He leaves my arms and then waits for the elevator door to open at the Ground level. He storms out leaving me speechless. Kya cheez hai yeh aadmi? ( What the hell is this man?)

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 49

Arnav Singh Raizada was not very surprised when AJ stormed in his cabin. From the look on her face, he could easily say she got to know that Khushi is now aware of her real identity.

Arnav: Good you came AJ.. Aman was telling me he needs your attention over few documents.
Anjali: You told her? ( she asked in the most dangerous tone she had used ever) We had a Deal Arnav.. How could you forget that?

Arnav showed his calm as much as possible, allowing AJ to vent her heart out.

Anjali: I had started guessing it.. You are no less than a Moth who easily got attracted to the fire. You think I was unaware of your growing closeness with her?

Before she could lose her already lost cool, he replied harshly.

Arnav: That's none of your Business AJ.. Khushi is my wife and
Anjali ( intervening): Dont give me that "Wife" thing.. She is just a woman who you got attracted to and wanted to sleep with. It was only later that you got to know about Viraj and her and you felt cheated.

That's it. Arnav showed no more patience to deal with this woman. Within few strides he reached AJ and caught her neck, though he didnt hold it tightly. She could still breathe. It was just that she was immensely shocked by his actions.

Arnav: Next time you show direspect towards her, I will pull your filthy tongue out AJ..

Anjali zipped her lips. From past few days she was only getting negative vibes about Arnav taking Khushi seriously, today he proved it. He was so much lost in Khushi that he cannot stand any wrong word against her. Arnav slowly removed his hand from her neck and then gestured her to sit.

Arnav: What will you have ? Coffee?
Anjali: I had enough here I suppose ( she pressed her neck to erase that slight pain she felt because of Arnav's hold)
Arnav marched back to his desk.

Arnav: Now that you got to know about Khushi knowing her identity, I want you to understand that this was beyond my control. It was your father's foolishness that hit this reality before her. So technically I didnt reveal anything to Khushi until she already had enough hints to understand. I didnt break our Deal. Your father's growing bond towards Khushi did it. So Dont blame me.

This was not hidden from Anjali either. She knew how her father was trying to erase off the distance between him and his illegitimate daughter.

Anjali: I am sorry..
Arnav was back in his ruling mode now.
Arnav: I didnt hear you AJ.. Loudly!!
Anjali shot back at him an angry stare and then repeated.
Anjali: SORRY!!
Arnav: Forgiven.. we are Business partners and we should not let each other's personal life issues create blunders in our profession. Aman is trying to reach you since 2 days, where were you?
Anjali sat on the Couch feeling exhausted.

Anjali: My husband is going cranky these days. He thinks I am overrating my father and Khushi's issue.
Arnav: He is right. You are over reacting AJ..
Anjali smiled sarcastically.
Anjali: Everyone is not like you Arnav. You could accept your Half sister Arushi easily, I cant do the same with Khushi. For me she and her mother will always remain my foe.
Arnav: Her mother is no longer alive and what is Khushi's fault in this? She didnt even know what legitimate or illegitmate relationship gave birth to her.
Anjali :Stop defending her.
Arnav: You stop offending her.

This was a clash of opinions again. AJ stood up to leave.

Anjali: It's waste talking to you over this matter. I can already see a love sick man before me who cannot withstand any power against his wife. It's better I leave.

She took her clutch and walked to the door.

Arnav: Dont forget to meet Aman. The documents are important.

Anjali opened the door.

Anjali: You dont have to remind me that .( she closed the door behind her and thats when the woman she hated the most was right before her nose)

Khushi herself got startled facing AJ.. She had never spoke to this woman so far. All she knew about her was that she was Arnav's business partner and SG's daughter, the later introduction hurt more today. That means she was her Step sister, her elder sister. Why were these relations so pricking? AJ fisted her fingers.

Anjali: You are standing in my way. ( this was the first time she attempted to talk to her)

Khushi could read the taunt in Anjali's words. Probably she knew her real identity and hence the bitterness. But what was her fault in it ? Or may be it was too early to judge AJ's pain and anger. She slowly moved aside giving AJ enough space to walk away. But AJ didnt leave. Instead she came close to Khushi and then met her eyes.

Anjali: Dont think that my father will allow you inside my house. Before stepping there, you will have to cross my wrath. 

Khushi felt extremely hurt by Anjali's choice of words.

Khushi: When I dont accept SG as my father, why will I ever step in your house? Be assured AJ.. I have no intentions to be a part of your family. I am happy where I currently belong.

Saying that and giving a clear picture to Anjali, Khushi stepped in Arnav's cabin. Anjali was surprised at her thoughts. Whatever Khushi clarified somehow didnt convince AJ. She knew how emotional Khushi has been but emotional people like her can act as fools sometimes .. not always. Why will she leave such a huge opportunity to be a heir of the Gupta clan, daughter of such a powerful Politician and a member of such a rich family?

The moment Khushi stepped inside Arnav's cabin he could notice the pain in her expressions. She and AJ must have crossed each other's paths before she walking in. He headed to her and with a very concerned tone, he placed his arm over her shoulder.

Arnav: Tum theek ho? (You okay?)
She met his eyes and then moving his arm away from her shoulder she walked inside.
Khushi: Make this real fast. I am in a hurry.
Arnav gritted his teeth as he came back to his desk.
Arnav: You are not the only one who is busy. Stop flaunting that so much. SIT!! ( he commanded)

Khushi nervously sat on the chair, opposite to him as he placed the agreement copy before her.

Arnav: You can read it. I have tried to formulate this very much to appeal both the parties.
Khushi: That sounds very Business like. This is not some kind of deal which we are making here. I was the borrower and I am thankful that he helped me in times of my need.
Arnav: Wish he hadnt !! ( he declared angrily making Khushi look in his eyes ).. If he hadnt helped you financially,  you would never have eloped.

There was a lump formed in her throat at his direct declaration.

Khushi: If you are so much against this help I took from him, why repaying it for me? I didnt ask your favour.
Arnav: As a husband I need to ensure my wife is out of all debts.
Khushi: Husband? ( she mocked) .. You failed me at the very first instance of our relationship..  (she screamed at him again)

Arnav undid his bow tie and leaned over her. She felt extreme heat emanating from his body considering the level of anger that was overpowering his mind.
Khushi: What are you doing? (she was hardly audible. )

He gave her a predatory look leaning forward and she turned her head almost immediately after knowing where his eyes and lips were headed.

Arnav: I am claiming what is mine. (his tone roughened while her heart raced)

Khushi shut her eyes in fear. All the weariness was back on her face. This man had already made her so weak by hiding the biggest truth of her identity and even now he had that much of audacity to claim her as his wife? Though she will never allow it to happen, somehow she felt too weak and dejected to fight back. He had driven away all the energy from her.

Arnav sensed the tension in her expressions and moved back.

Arnav (clenching his jaw): You need to learn to keep your voice down Mrs Khushi Singh Raizada..

Khushi opened her eyes and gave him few heated glares. So he backed out.. Good for him..It was better she ends this conversation here and leaves back to her work. To speed up she picked the agreement copy in her hand.

Khushi: I will read this and send you my answer later.

She was about to get up when he forcefully made her sit again on the chair.

Arnav: You will read it NOW.

His devilish tone made Khushi little apprehensive of rejecting his words. She started reading the agreement slowly, in her mind, while Arnav kept his eyes glued on her face, her eyes, her little flared nose and her pink lips. Why was she so adamant in coming back to him? If she had, today things would have been so different. She finished reading and then placed the agreement on the table again.

Khushi: Pen?

He handed her a pen and she immediately signed wherever needed.

Khushi: When are we taking this to him?
Arnav became little conscious.
Arnav: WE? It will be just me who will meet him and hand over the agreement.
Khushi: Jee nahi.. I was the one involved here. I will accompany you.

Arnav didnt deny. If she accompanies him, it will be he who would gain her time and presence. At office she is always busy and keeps avoiding his company. This will be the best opportunity for him.

Arnav: Fine!! Today sharp at 06:00 we will start for Viraj's residence.

Khushi gently noded and without even a word, she walked out of his cabin.

******************

They drove together at Viraj's residence. Khushi was still unsure about how this matter would be handled considering Arnav was taking the lead. But she knew Viraj, he was didnt lose his calm so easily unlike Arnav. They both reached the house, it was huge and lot many political party workers here and there in the vicinity. Will it drag their attention ? Khushi didnt wanted any more drama in her life. The PA of Viraj welcomed them inside.

PA: Viraj ji will be joining you both here soon. Please sit and relax.

He made them comfortable in a room and left. Khushi nervously fiddled with her phone. All of this felt so cliched. After few minutes Viraj walked inside. He gave a warm gaze at me until Arnav stood between his gaze and me. Viraj finally paid attention to Arnav.

Viraj: Sorry to keep you both waiting. I was little busy with these campagnings and all. Aman told me you and Khushi wanted to see me, so I tried winding it up soon. Uhhh.. Please sit..
Arnav: Thanks for your time Viraj.. I wanted to do this personally over the phone but Khushi insisted on doing it face to face.

Khushi looked at Arnav with cold eyes. Why was he telling a lie?

Viraj: Face to face?  ( he seemed totally confused )
Arnav: Yes.. She told me it wont look good to give a closure to any relationship without a face to face meeting. I agreed and so we are here.
Khushi realised what Arnav was trying to prove. He was just cutting the ties, whatever left, between her and Viraj in the most abrupt way.
Viraj: Closure? Face to face meeting? Sorry .. but I am really confused what all this means..
Arnav (smirked): I will elaborate..

He quickly handed a cheque to Viraj and then the agreement.

Arnav: This is the amount you helped Khushi with a year ago to elope to San Fransisco.. I have added the due interest as well, let me know if this total looks good or I missed out anything..

Viraj was dumbfounded.. So Arnav came to know he helped Khushi financially to run away from him? And moreover he was even returning the money?

Viraj: Arnav.. I ..
Arnav: No.. Dont say anything .. Me and my wife are really thankful that you did this. If we hadnt seperated for some time then we would never have come to know what we missed. You are the sole reason we are experiencing this sizzling chemistry between us..

He wrapped his arm around Khushi's waist, drawing her closer. His fake smirks could fool Viraj but Khushi was not very happy about it. Why to show off so much? She moved his hand away and distanced again.

Arnav: Shy Baby? ( he asked in a teasing tone)
Khushi hated that attitude he carried. What was the need? Couldnt he just give the money and end this ?Is that why he agreed to get her along?
Viraj: (intervening): But ASR.. why so much hurry to return?
Arnav: Khushi insisted. She wanted to give this matter a proper closure, you know how odd it gets when you have ended a relationship and you still take favour from that same person..

Khushi chewed her tongue. What the hell was Arnav saying?

Arnav: Anyways.. This is the agreement related to the return of the money, Khushi has signed it. You can read and sign it at your convenience, I will send Aman to collect it from you when done.

Viraj plainly noded.

Arnav: We should leave then.. ( he said turning to Khushi who instead of agreeing to him, walked straight to Viraj)
Khushi: Thank you Viraj.. Thank you for everything..
Viraj smiled. Arnav clenched his jaw. Who asked her to speak?
Khushi: And I am sorry for that slap. It was all a misconception which is now cleared. I cannot take that slap back, I can only be sorry for it.  I should have known the full matter instead of just coming and raising my hand on you.
Viraj: It's okay Khushi. I am glad that you know I can never hurt you.

Arnav felt like punching someone..He somehow hated to see that little moment of truth between Viraj and Khushi. HIS KHUSHI..

Viraj: You stay happy.. That's all I want to see. ( he then looked at the angered expressions on Arnav's face and met Khushi's eyes again) Are you really happy Khushi?

Damn! Arnav would have punched Viraj for asking his wife that.. But it was Khushi's reply which cooled him down.

Khushi: Of course.. I am very happy with Arnav..

Why? Why did she lie? She didnt had to lie. She could have told she was not staying with him. SHe could have even told she was going to give this marriage a chance but then some circumstances led her to pause that thought, why didnt she reveal all that ?

Viraj: Great .. GoodBye then!!

Khushi smiled and turned back to Arnav as if signalling him that they should leave. Arnav followed her. Viraj kept looking at them fondly until they left the door.

Once they were back in the car, little away from the vicinity of Viraj's house, Khushi asked him to stop the car. He didnt.

Arnav: Why?
Khushi: I will take another ride back home.
Arnav: You didnt had a problem when we drove together at Viraj's house. Why making a fuss now?
Khushi: Because I dont want anymore drama when you drop me to Lakshmi Nagar. You did enough before Viraj tonight. What was all that lies for ?
Arnav: They were necessary..( he had no remorse )
Khushi: Really? Why ? Only to show off Viraj how much priced possession I am in your life?

Arnav put the brakes hard stopping the car at the roadside. Khushi jerked at that sudden shriek.

Arnav: If you had so much problem with my drama, why did you support it at the end? ( she was bewildered at his question).. Why did you lie to Viraj that you are happy with me?

Khushi (gulping her feelings): That was necessary.. ( she replied in the same tone like he did sometime back) 

She looked away from him, hiding her tears..

Arnav fisted his fingers over the steering wheel and giving her one last cold glance started the car engine again. Why was she so complex in understanding that they both needed each other.. They had crossed the ocean of hatred already, it was high time they unite now.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 50

Arnav halted the car at a Pharmacy, I was little unsure why. I thought of keeping this curiousity to myself. He bought something, probably a small bottle of pills and after returning back in the car, he threw it at the front deck below the Music player. Arnav started the car engine. My eyes tried reading the name of the pills and when I realised they were Sleeping pills, I was very angry.

Khushi: Sleeping pills? You will take those?
Arnav: What else is one supposed to do when you dont get sleep. I have sucked for some peace last two nights, dont want to repeat the same any longer.
Khushi: So what? You should not take them in any condition Arnav.

Arnav glanced at her and gave a half smile.

Arnav: Kitni khudgarz ho naa tum Khushi? Nahi chahti ki tumhara pati chein se soye? (How selfish you are Khushi. Dont you want your husband to sleep peacefully?)

I clenched my jaw at his unnecessary and purposeful blames.

Khushi: That can harm your body. Dont take them at any cost.. ( I warn him again)

He stopped the car with a loud shierk. I totally ignore that and keep looking at him for a assurance, that he wont be consuming those pills. 

Arnav: Then come back to me.. If you are beside me, I wont need those for this lifetime.

Words choke in my throat. Whatever I say, finally it comes up at the same discussion, me returning back to him or not. I realise that we have already reached the vicinity of my Nani's house.

Khushi: Good night.. (My voice sounds weak)

I opened the car door and hurried to the house. I could feel his intense gaze scorching through my body because I left him unanswered. I fiddled with the keys to unlock the door and in the process, the keys fell down. I was about to lean but before that Arnav picked it up for me.

Khushi: (snatching the keys from his hand): You.. you didnt leave?

Arnav was not very happy that I him so. His masculine arm slipped around my waist and I was forcefully pulled closer to him.

Arnav: Let me stay here tonight. ( his deep husky voice whispered in my ear)

I was astounded by his request. And ofcourse point to be noted was that he REQUESTED, didnt DEMAND. But that didnt mean I would let it fulfil. I struggled to come off his grip.

Khushi: No... Leave at once..
Arnav:( he leaned again at my ear): You are not saying this from your heart, you want me to stay Khushi. Admit it.

I shut my eyes. His warm breath filled my inside with a need of acknowleding his request. Why was I turning out so sensitive to his pleas? I was not like this before. He nibbled a portion of my ear making me completely drown in his ministerations. My mind again kept warning me to draw back but before I could act over it, he pulled away from me and stared at my tortured state. He smirked.

Arnav: May be you are right. I should go.

NO!! I wanted to scream..

Arnav: Good night.. ( he gave me a lopsided smile and walked back to his car)

I was flabbergasted by his actions. It seemed like he purposely teased her to a point where she almost changed her mind and before she could accept his offer, he intentionally left her. How sick was that? What was going in his head ?

******************

It was almost 10:30pm, I had just finished food and cleared the vessels from the sink. Though since the time I was staying with Arnav in his house, I had lost this touch of doing the daily chores of the kitchen, I still managed to take appropriately lesser time to finish all of it and give myself some free time. But why did I need this free time? I have no one here to spend that extra time with. I was alone.. A lone tear rolled down my cheek which I wiped off almost instantly. I need this time to seriously think of Arnav and my future. Was I prepared to trust that man again?

I walked to the window to shut it when I saw a White Ambassador car parked outside, almost some 100 meters away from my house. That Car number sounded familiar.  A sudden rage accelerated in my body. This car belonged to SG.. Why was he here? Before I could apprehend anything, there was a knock at my door. It had to be him. But I cant open this door and face him.

Shashi (banging the door again): Khushi.. open the door. I know you are inside.

I stumble at the edge of the window. I cant face him..Tears pooled in my eyes again.

Shashi: Khushi Beta.. Please..

I shut my ears, trying to supress his voice from reaching them. I could still hear the third knock.

Shashi: Khushi , for once, please let me talk to you..

I slowly removed hands from the ears. It was never my fault, but his. He hide our relation from the entire world. So why should I worry to face him? With slow forward steps I opened the door and then walked back inside. Shashi Gupta followed me. There was a long pause after which he finally got the courage to face me.

Khushi: Why have you come here ? my voice shivered. I was holding a deep pain inside my throat which was slowly engulfing me from within)

Shashi was about to say something when I continued.

Khushi: You shouldnt be here SG... Your image will be at stake.
It was like a slap to Shashi Gupta. Yes, somehow it was always for his image that he kept hiding his relationship with Garima.
Khushi: If anyone sees you here, there will be headlines tomorrow in every newspaper.. People will demand knowing what relationship we share and like usual, you will have no answers to give.

I joined my palms helplessly.

Khushi: So Just leave.. There is no one here who needs your support.
Shashi was touched to see her pleading him. He immediately held her hands and drew them away.

Shashi :Khushi please.. Dont push me away. I beg you Beta..
Khushi angrily shrugged his arms from hers.

Khushi: Dont you ever call me that again.. I am NOT your Daughter.. My father is dead, you understand that? He was always dead for me..

Shashi broke down in tears. If he was hurt, so was she.

Khushi: What do you know about being a father, huh? Only giving birth to a child does not give you a right to be called a father Mr Shashi Gupta.. There are many other responsibilities to follow until your last breath for your child, which you never even tried for me. ( I paused to take a deep breath and wipe the last drop of tear from my eyes).. You have only one daughter and she is Anjali. So you better go back to her.

I retreated myself from his way and moved to the Sofa. I waited there to hear him leaving out but instead heard his soft sobs. He was crying. Shashi Gupta was crying..

Shashi: I am sorry..
Khushi revolted back.
Khushi: Stop this madness Mr Gupta.. No Sorries or apologies are going to mellow down my heart. Strong and powerful people like you just know to play with lives of poor people like us. You fooled my mother but I will not come in your words.  Yes I needed a father when I was young, to hold my hand, to help me walk, to take me to the market and shop goodies for me, to buy me chocolates on his way home, to pat me on his back and put me to sleep, I needed a father for all of this.. But I thank God that it never happened and I never got used to all these gestures from you, at least that makes me releived from sharing any kind of bond with you now.

Shashi was terrified by the way she poured her heart out to  him. It pricked him to know how much he had hurt her all these years.

Khushi: You have not just failed me and your mother, but also your legitimate wife and your daughter Anjali. She is still living in the fear that a day would come when you will plan to accept me before the whole world. Dont do it Mr Gupta. At least keep someone happy..

Shashi was so touched at her thoughts. Even after facing so much odd in her life, she was still thinking about Anjali's rights and happiness and not her own? How can she be so selfless?

Khushi: Now please leave.. Your cries or your presence is not going to affect me anyhow. I have lived all these years without a father and I will appreciate if it continues.

She walked inside the other room, not wanting to face him anymore. After a minute she heard the sound of the main door closing. He had left. She came in the Living room and shut the door harshly. That was the end of her courage. She kneeled down on the floor and cried bitterly.

*******************

He felt it..
Khushi was in pain.. He got up from the bed and strode in his room. He was breathless. It was so strange that even after taking the sleeping pills , he didnt get a sound sleep. He missed her and what he felt just now, he never felt earlier. Somehow he knew Khushi was not okay at her home. He had to check on her. He took the car keys and hurried downstairs. His eyes were closing again and again due to the sleeping pills affect but he managed to drive to her Nani's house. He wanted to ensure she was fine. When he reached there, he saw SG's car moving out of that place. SG? What was he doing here? Did he come to reconcile with his daughter? Was SG so foolish? No wonder Arnav felt this uneasiness for Khushi's condition tonight. He stormed inside the house, Khushi though had shut the door, she had not locked it. She was so much in distress that she almost forgot to lock the main door of her house. She was now sitting down at the Sofa, curled and hugging to her knees, weeping. It was so heart-wrenching to see her in that state. She saw him but her tears didnt fade away, neither she was in the position to judge why he came back ? Without any warning Arnav came to her, kneeled himself and palmed her cheek.

Arnav: Sshh.. It's okay.. Stop crying..

Without wasting another second, he wrapped his arm around her and pulled her close. She needed this support. She continued to cry bitterly on his shoulders. The force with which she circled her arms around his waist pushed his kneeling position and he had to take the support of the Sofa edge . He caressed her back and her head until all her whimpers calmed down.

Arnav: I know its not easy.. A father should be the strongest support to any child. And when that is snatched, you become hollow.

His voice had immense pain in itself. She stopped crying and raised her head. His eyes were moist. How could she forget he was equally hurt by his own father when he was a child. Daadi had told her. Arnav adored his father too much and after his mother's sudden death he had always expected his father to take her place. But instead , Ayush SIngh Raizada re-married and this little boy was pushed into darkness. Just like she had no fault, he too was innocently denied of his father's presence and love. She could relate to his pain. 

She was about to wipe his moist eyes but his betrayal towards her identity filled her mind with anger against him, once again. She realised how close they were sitting and immediately pushed herself away from his hug. Arnav didnt force her to come back. She was normal now and he was more than happy to see her better. He felt tired and utmost sleepy, his eyes were blinking continuously. Khushi was still watching his expressions.

Khushi: You took those pills?

He gently noded but after a minute. He didnt wanted her to give further reactions over that topic.

Khushi: Why did you come here ?
Arnav: Mujhe laga ki tum pareshan ho.. (I could feel you are tensed)..  I somehow felt it..

This was unimaginable. Arnav Singh Raizada who never cared for other people's emotions felt for her? And that too just guessed it?

Arnav: I should leave. ..
He tried getting up keeping his eyes open but sleep was slowly overpowering him. Khushi realised that. He was about to fall but Khushi supported him.

Arnav: Thank you..

Once again, this man baffled her.. Did he just thank her? She never saw him showering such kind words to anyone before..

Khushi: You cant drive back.. You are feeling dizzy..
Arnav : I can drive..

He tried leaving but she still insisted.

Khushi: Stay here tonight..

Her words echoed in his ears as if it wasnt from her but God. He gave her a mischevious look but she cleared her thoughts before he takes it too forward.

Khushi: I am not prepared to see you in the Hospital Arnav. Driving at this stage will lead you there for sure. Stay here for tonight, on the Couch.

COUCH!! Damn!! Still, it was better than he staying at his home. The distances between them were lesser here compared to the later. She left for her little bedroom, ensuring this time to lock the door. Arnav turned to the couch, and without a second thought he lay down over it, going into a deep slumber.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 51

Khushi tossed on her bed, looking again and again at the door of her bedroom. The thought of Arnav Singh Raizada sleeping in the same house, but in the next room made her restless. He had started taking the help of sleeping pills and that is what she was worried of. He was testing her patience by doing all these things. Why cant he understand that she was unable to forgive him? She needed time to digest the fact that he had hidden such a crucial information about her from past so many months. Amidst all her thoughts, she heard a loud sound of something falling outside. Khushi immediately opened the bedroom door and rushed in the Kitchen from where the sound came. When she turned the lights on, she found Arnav picking the fallen empty jug of water from the floor and when he raised on his feet she saw his forehead had a deep cut with few blood drops oozing out of it. His eyes were still sleepy. No wonder the sleeping pills effect was still there. He might have woken up in thirst and in the process of getting some water from the kitchen, he stumbled and got hit.

Arnav: I was looking for some water.

Khushi blamed herself for not keeping some water for him at the couch. She knew he always wakes up at night feeling thirsty. She closed the distance between them.

Khushi: You are hurt. ( she tried touching his wound but he backed off)
Arnav: Main kar lunga ( I will manage)

His arrogance at this instance frustrated her.

Arnav: Just tell me where the water is?
She flared her nose and taking the jug from him, she filled it with drinking water and handed back to him. He gulped some water at that same instance. Reaching back the Sofa, he tried to touch the wound on his forehead.

Khushi meanwhile got a first aid box and sat next to him.

Khushi: Let me clean the wound.
Arnav: (she was about to touch it when he held her wrist and stopped): Why? Does it make any difference to you?

She didnt react. All this was ought to come from him.
Arnav: You can make me sleep on this hard Sofa, which is not even of my height. When I can bear that pain, I can tolerate this pain also.
Khushi: Arnav dont act like a kid. When I want to do something, allow me to do it. ( she replied in a harsh tone)

He met her eyes and then gave up the pretense of disallowing her. She quickly cleaned the wound and applied a bandaid. In the process, she was close to him. It felt like ecstasy. He kept admiring her face. She knew it too but she could hardly do anything about it. Once she was done treating him, she got up with the kit.

Khushi: You can sleep in the bedroom.

He was not very surprised. He got up, his eyes not leaving hers even once.

Arnav: If I have to sleep alone there, I would prefer sleeping here.
Khushi clenched her jaw.
Khushi: Sorry!! In that case you will have to sleep on the Couch only, because I dont want to sleep next to you.

She turned around and walked away. This woman had to be tamed. Because this unwanted distance she was creating between them was pricking his heart more and more every day. He arranged his pillow position and once again slept on the Couch.

******************

Arnav woke up by the sound of the knock at the main door. He was sweating already. This house had no AC and he was overused to it at his own home. The whole night he couldnt sleep with ease due to this extreme heat. The electric fan was of no use, be at any level of speed. He tried keeping the windows open for sometime but then the mosquitoes didnt let him sleep. He cursed himself for not setting up an Air Conditioner in this house while renovating it. That would have helped now. He should have gone back home last night, at least he would have got the much necessary sleep. There was a second knock and this time a loud one. The lack of sleep was making him frustrated.

Arnav: Get out!! ( he roared in anger putting one of the cushion on his ear)

That loud roar of Arnav woke up Khushi and she came out quickly from the bedroom. She rushed to open the door. While doing so she gave him a warning look for losing his patience and cool early morning at some unknown and innocent person who was knocking the door. It was Sharda Mausi, one of her neighbor, in her late 50's.

Sharda: Khushi Bitiya.. Sorry to disturb you.. But I saw Daamadji's car outside. Is he here?

Arnav got up from the Couch to ensure no one from the outsiders know they slept in two different rooms. Before Sharda Mausi could get in, he came and stood behind Khushi, yawning. Khushi smiled at Sharda Mausi who was blushing tomato red. Arnav himself didnt realise what made the old lady blush so hard. Khushi gave a proper look to Arnav and that's when she saw Arnav's T shirt first two buttons were open and giving a clear visibility of his upper portion of the chest to that old Lady. Arnav immediately buttoned it up.

Sharda: Daamadji.. Kaise ho? (How are you?)
Arnav: I am fine. Thank you.
Sharda: When you came alone 2 days ago, I was worried if you and Daamadji fought, which is why you started staying here. But now seeing Daamadji also here, I am satisfied.
Khushi faked a smile.
Sharda: Will Daamadji also stay here? With you?

Arnav and Khushi both instantly replied two different answers at the same time.

Arnav: Yes
Khushi: No..

Sharda was confused.

Khushi: Mausi.. I came here in this house for some change. Besides my other office location is very close to this place. You know the traffic these days. So I prefer staying here for some time.

What an utter lie, he thought. From where does she frame such instant excuses?

Sharda: And Daamadji? What about you?
Khushi: (interrupting): He wont stay here. Not at any cost ( she said meeting his eyes)

Arnav saw the desperation in her eyes, of pushing him out of this house as soon as possible. He thought of taking some benefit of the situation.

Arnav: Actually Khushi is right, I am not going to stay here, neither is she ( he gave a cold glare to Khushi).. I am taking her from here in few days.
Khushi gritted her teeth but pretended to smile at him. How over confident he was.
Sharda: Ohh.. That's a good thing. Husband-Wife always should be together. But such distances are also necessary. They make you crave more for each other.

Arnav's eyebrows raised high. She was so right. He was madly craving for his wife, wish he could demonstrate to her, how much.

Khushi: Mausi. We are getting late for work, should I talk to you when I come back in the evening?
Sharda: Ohh yes yes. Why not? In fact why dont you and Daamadji come at my home for dinner tonight? I will be honoured to serve you both
Khushi: Noo.. I mean.. this is not necessary.. I dont want to trouble you.

Arnav again took this opportunity in his favour.

Arnav: Come on Khushi. Mausi is like our relative. She wont be considering it a trouble to cook for us.

Sharda chuckled whereas Khushi frowned at him, just waiting for Sharda Mausi to leave so that she can then tell him he was crossing the limits by accepting every offer that could keep them close.

Sharda: He is right. You both are like my own. After Devyaniji left, who else do you have in this Locality who would love to greet and treat you ? Please dont deny Khushi. I will be waiting for you both tonight.
Khushi: We will try Sharda Mausi ( she still tried to end this matter here and not accept the invite)
Sharda: No no. Not try. You both have to come. I will leave now. Bye..

She left before Khushi could provide her any other excuse. Arnav closed the door because Khushi was right now very much irritated by what he did.

Arnav (getting back to his cold behaviour): I am using your bathroom.
Khushi: Wait! Why did you accept the dinner invitation? You purposely did it, didnt you ?
Arnav: Yes. Because I have no one out there in my home, who can cook for me.

That sentence shut her mouth. SHe kept staring at him.
Arnav: Not for once you thought how I will lead my life back there, in that house, without you.
Khushi: You were used to that life, without me, when I was in San Fransisco. Why cant you continue that again? Why suddenly you want me there to do all your work?
Arnav gritted his teeth. The next instant he pulled her in his arms. Khushi didnt retaliate. She kept looking in his eyes.

Arnav: Shayad ab tum meri aadat ban chuki ho.. Mrs Khushi Singh Raizada. (Because you have become a habit to me now.. Mrs Khushi SIngh Raizada)
Khushi: Aadate badli jaa sakti hai( Habits can be changed)
Arnav: I tried, but whenever I tried, I suffocated. If I try harder than this, I might kill myself

What kind of a dialogue was that? It did mellow down all her anger in a fraction of second. Earlier he never openly declared what he felt for her, now he was much more vocal about it. Was it a good sign? She slowly came out of his hold and then tied her long hair in a bun. He kept admiring her doing that.

Khushi (unable to meet his eyes): I am making tea for you. Have it and please leave.

She didnt wait to hear his response. She knew it will be again something which she cannot tolerate.

********************

Arnav sipped the tea, sitting at the dinning table beside the living room. Khushi's bedroom door was open and she had just come out from the bathroom, and was drying her hair with a Towel. He could hardly breathe. He was ready to bear any level of heat and mosquito bites if this was the sight he would get every morning. Khushi had no clue she was been so keenly watched by her husband from outside. She started looking for a suitable dress for work. May be a pair of trousers and a semi formal shirt. She was about to change into that dress when she realised the bedroom door was open and her husband's prying eyes were on her. She came forward and shut the door on his face. The same instant he shut his eyes to control his urge. He concentrated back on the tea and kept checking the messages and emails on his Smartphone. He indeed had a lot of work today and he had to complete that before 08:00 so that he can again jump in here for Dinner at Sharda Mausi's house with his wife.

Khushi came out, changed in the office attire.

Arnav: I will drop you to office.
Khushi: Not needed. I will take a Cab.
Arnav: I am not giving you any options.

She would have fussed about it but she was late already and hence she couldnt take that risk. After dropping Khushi to AR office, Arnav headed back home to have his shower.

*********************

It was afternoon when Khushi came back to her little cabin to take few minutes break. She was amused to see Tanvi sitting on her Chair happily.

Khushi: Tanvi? What are you doing here?

Tanvi grinned at her. 
Tanvi: Hey Khushi. I came here to see you. Come.
Khushi had no clue what this girl wanted. She still chose to come forward and wait for Tanvi to vacate her chair.
Tanvi: I heard you are no longer with Arnav now?

Ohh .. So that news got her here. No wonder Tanvi seemed very happy about it.

Khushi: That's our personal matter Tanvi and I dont want to discuss it.
Tanvi: (getting up from the chair): When the whole world is discussing about it openly, what else is left to hide? Anyways, I am here to pass my wishes to you. It's not easy to handle ASR.. I understand. He needs a woman like me.

Khushi though tried not reacting to it, her blood boiled instantly. How can Tanvi be so cheap? She was openly talking about snatching her husband.

Tanvi: I was waiting for that day when he would kick you out of that house. ( she chuckled) .. So that I can get in. You made a way for me Khushi.
Khushi fisted her fingers. She better leaves or else..
Tanvi: Arnav was very much into you. But I see he couldnt digest the fact that his wife has illegtimate blood.

Khushi was shocked at that kind of revealation from Tanvi. How did she know?

Tanvi: What happened? Surprised? Ohh dont be. Your enemy is my friend. Anjali Jha. The legitimate daughter of Gupta.
Khushi gulped.
Tanvi: Dont worry, I wont be telling this truth to anyone. People have no clue why you and Arnav are staying seperate. They think its a normal husband-wife fight which might sort some day or the other. But I am warning you, dont even dare to reconcile with Arnav.. He is mine now. Because if you do, I will let the whole world know what relationship you and SG share. People will look down upon you Khushi. I am sure you dont want that.

Khushi clenched her jaw. She was still quiet and showing patience.

Tanvi : Good. And dont worry about  Arnav. I know he needs warmth of a woman again in his life, what am I for? ( she slowly leaned at Khushi's ear) I will keep him very warm. Believe me..

Khushi shut her eyes. This was going overboard. No one had the right to threat her like this.

Tanvi: Collect whatever you have in that house before I settle in there. Understood?

Giving a sarcastic grin, Tanvi left her cabin. Khushi unfisted her fingers. Tanvi had openly challenged her to stay away from Arnav. Fortunately Arnav was someone who would entertain any other woman. She felt little contended amidst all the anger and jealousy she felt for the last few words from Tanvi.

" I will keep him very warm. Believe me.. "

It doesnt take men to fall for such moments. Can Arnav be one of them? And even if the answer is Yes, should she bother?

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 52

It became really difficult for Khushi to concentrate since the time she met Tanvi in her office today. That woman had invoked a lot of pressure right now in Khushi's mind regarding her future with Arnav. No wonder Tanvi had always wanted Arnav and she was still trying all this even after Khushi's return back to India. Tanvi had practically never stopped, she had only been waiting for the right time to come. And Anjali Jha gave her this right time. By disclosing Tanvi that Khushi was her step sister, she gave a huge opportunity to Tanvi to blackmail Khushi of revealing this to the world. Tanvi can go to this extent. Khushi was full confident of that. But was she bothered of this? There were so many thoughts running in Khushi's head that made her absoultely blank. It was better she leaves home. She had finished her work already. While she was winding up Prashant came to her.

Prashant: Khushi this is your Pass for the Fashion Event.
Khushi took the pass and kept it in her purse.
Khushi: I cant believe the event is day after tomorrow. This whole preperation thing went on too busy.
Prashant: Yes, but there was so much I could learn from you. So thanks.
Khushi: It's different working for such events here in India than in San Fransisco.
Prashant: I know. So? What's your next plan? Will you continue with Jashn or planning to go back to San Fransisco?

This was something which even she was trying to find out. Should she go back was not the question. Will she be able to go back was what haunted her mind. She was used to this place now and in these few weeks that she stayed with Arnav, she had learnt a lot about him and hanging their relationship in between like this was not appropriate. If the misunderstandings of Viraj sorted between them, a few new problems had developed too, like the one about her identity, which had once again created distance between them. Until she sorts all of this, she cannot leave.

Prashant: Hey?? Sorry if I asked something too personal.
Khushi: No Prashant. It's fine. In fact I dont know what to say, it's... it's not that easy you know, to take such huge decisions.
Prashant: True. Anyways wish you luck and see you tomorrow. Bye.

Khushi waved him a Bye and then left for home. She badly needed a home made Masala tea to cheer her mood.

After about an hour of reaching home, Khushi was still lying on the Sofa and flipping the channels of the TV when her phone rang. It was Daadi's call. She answered it and started speaking to her casually. The first few minutes went on discussing about how Shashi Gupta had ended up to meet her last night and then Arnav staying back here. Daadi was impressed to know that Arnav was trying to win her, though he was still masking it behind his attitude. Khushi decided to tell about Tanvi's threats but she didnt understand how to start.

Khushi: Should I be worried of Tanvi, Daadi?
Daadi: Tanvi? Why are you asking me that? Anything happened?
Khushi: No.. Nothing happened.. I am just wondering if she is still interested in Arnav.
Daadi: Khushi, I can feel it in your voice. You want to tell me something but you are hiding it. What is it?

Khushi opened up slowly how Tanvi had come to the office today and she blackmailed Khushi to stay away from Arnav or else she will let people know that she is illegitimate daughter of Shashi Gupta. Daadi was shocked.

Daadi: What is wrong with that girl? Why cant she leave you and Arnav alone? I never thought she can go to this extent to get Arnav. Does he know?
Khushi: No. I didnt tell him, you know how easily he loses his calm. What he did with Amrita Aunty, I dont want him to do the same with Tanvi.
Daadi: You cannot ignore Tanvi, Khushi. And if she is backed up by AJ, then you better be careful.

This felt like a warning to Khushi but she didnt express her fear towards it, right now.

Khushi: Hmm..

The door bell rang and Khushi had no clue who it might be. She told Daadi that she will call her later and then disconnecting the call she opened the door. Her husband Arnav Singh Raizada, little tired, yet  looking breathtakingly handsome, was standing in all his glory, waiting to be welcomed.

Arnav: You arent ready yet? Sharda Mausi will be waiting for us.

Ohh hell!! She had almost forgotten that Sharda Mausi had invited them for Dinner tonight. What surprised her was the fact that he remembered this and took the invitation very seriously.

Khushi: I am not going there with you.
Arnav sighed and stepped inside. She moved away as she saw him closing the door.
Arnav: (turning back to her): Spare that old lady, she must have taken so much efforts in cooking for us. Let's not waste it.
Khushi: Then you go. I will give her some excuse why I didnt join you.

Now that irked him little. His tone became rough.

Arnav: I didnt accept that invite for Sharda Mausi. I want to go there with you, not alone. So stop arguing and go get ready.

She flared her nose and crossed arms across her chest.

Khushi: Why should I obey you ?
Arnav: I can give you thousands of reasons why you should obey me Khushi, but that will only delay us more and I am already very hungry.

She didnt argue much because by that she would either delay his hunger or make him starve the whole night if he happens to leave back home without dinner. She quickly moved to the bedroom and dressed up. When she came out, she saw Arnav checking the Event pass which was lying on the Table.

Arnav: They gave you this normal pass? (he sighed in frustration) I will ask Aman to get you a VIP pass for the event.

Khushi: Not needed. And stop touching my things.

She tried to snatch the Pass from him but he moved his arm away, she tried again and this time he moved his arm behind, when she tried getting it the third time, he slid his free arm on her waist and pulled her closer. Their eyes met. He seemed to be longing for these kind of eye locks with her. As if the only way he could sustain the seperation from her was by getting involved in these kind of tiny moments with her. In their argument he had forgot to admire how beautiful she looked in this Pink-White night salwar Kurta. He had always loved her simple attire and todays one made him appreciate her all the more, though he didnt truly comment over it by his mouth. He watched her face as a worry tore through her. This worry was something else, not the usual ones which she had regarding him these days.

Arnav: What are you hiding from me Khushi?

His sudden doubt surprised her. He could read her so easily these days or may be she was promoting everything what she felt from inside, on her face, openly. She tried to come out from his hold but he kept her intact in the same position.

Arnav gave her an intense look.

Arnav: Stop hiding things from me dammit.
Khushi: You stop reading my face unnecessarily Dammit ( she roared in the same pitch) I am fine, okay? Now lets go and finish this dinner fiasco.

She managed to push him roughly and open the door to walk out. Arnav swallowed hard, he knew she was hiding something, many thoughts whirled in his mind but he would think about them once this dinner was done.

****************

Sharda had kids who were settled in Mumbai. She stayed alone here in Delhi and her kids kept visiting her once in two months. She kept praising the couple throughout the dinner. She even gave tips of how a marriage should be run to success. Though Khushi seemed to avoid commenting over it, she had seen Arnav listening very carefully to everything that Sharda Mausi had to say on that topic. Either the man was really very serious about sustaining their marriage or he was pretending to be a good listener. Whenever she tried to concentrate on Sharda Mausi's talks, the warnings of Tanvi kept haunting her mind. What if Tanvi really intrudes in their life and snatches her husband? However hard she keeps denying Arnav, she cannot ignore the fact that he was still her lawfully wedded husband. She had to protect their marriage from evil eyes of women like Tanvi. But can she do this under wraps or should she let Arnav know ?

Sharda: So? Are you going to stay with Khushi tonight, Daamadji?

He looked at Khushi with a "I wish to" look and she instead gave a cold feet.

Khushi: Mausi.. He is a very busy man. He will head back home to attend his video conference calls.
Sharda: That is not good Khushi bitiya. You are giving chance for other women to eye on your husband.
Khushi became alert.
Sharda: Daamadji is handsome, rich. There must be so many women out there eyeing on him. By staying away from him you are giving them an opportunity to them and also to people to back talk about your marriage.

This was kind of eye opener for Khushi, as if God himself had shown her what path to choose.

Sharda: I am not saying Daamadji will entertain them, but you cannot just leave everything on him. In marriage, both sides should contribute equally.
Arnav: That's what I have been warning her Mausi. But she is not ready to listen. ( he mocked looking at Khushi)
Khushi: Mausi.. I trust him. ( he could clearly tell she was pretending to show her trust)
Sharda: Trust is on one side and circumstances on other. Sometimes we cannot predict what the fate has written for us. So I would say prevention is better than cure.

The conversation did end here but Khushi's mind kept juggling for a decision. Should she warn Arnav about Tanvi? After the Dinner was over, Arnav walked Khushi till her house and then headed back to his car. He didnt show his interest in staying with her tonight which she thought was better. She felt bad to make him sleep on the couch, it might be hurting his body and making him restless too.

Khushi: Arnav? ( she called his name again making him turn around before opening the car door)

She swallowed hard this time.

Khushi: Dont take sleeping pills.

Arnav took a pause and then replied to her with the same ease.
Arnav: You know my reply Khushi. If you want to stop me taking those, come back home.
Khushi: That is not going to happen Arnav and it is all because you broke my trust, so, Deal with it.

Saying that she hurried back to her house. He felt hurt again but there was nothing much he could do right now about it. Had it been his old self, he would pick this woman in arms, tie her in his car and get her back home, lock her in their room forever, keep guards to ensure she never left their house. He would have caged her in his house so that she never leaves him again, but things had changed now, more importantly, he was changed now. He wanted to win her trust back and it can only be done with patience and love. But he would add his own flavour of arrogance too, he promised.

****************

The next 2 days went over hectic for both of them considering the Fashion event day was finally Up. They didnt even get time to see each other face to face, they got so busy in their own set schedules. Khushi got updates on Tanvi's presence in Raizada mansion from Daadi who was keeping a close watch on her. So this meant Tanvi wasnt approaching Arnav yet or doing anything wrong to make an entry in Arnav's farm house. Arnav did try to give her a VIP pass through Aman but she sent it back denying it straight away. This led to few more backtalks in his office where people started believing the fact that they were seperate and planning to make it legal very soon. Most of this news had started spreading out from AJ's loyal sources in AR office. She purposely wanted Arnav to break off his ties with Khushi so that she can hurt Khushi all the more. Arnav was aware of this mastermind and he was thus planning a serious effort to shut people's mouth forever. Which other public event could be best than this, to give his statement about their marriage status to the Public?

The event started, media was invited too who were trying their best to capture glimpse of Arnav Singh Raizada with his wife, they had hardly made any public appearance together all this while. This had to be media's best chance to prove the suspicions of ASR divorcing his wife soon and then being Single again. Everyone from the Raizada family were present for this Event. However bad the relationship was between Arnav and his father, during such social event Ayush Raizada made it a point to attend it with his entire family. He was here with Amrita and Tanvi. Arushi had been on some educational trip in the same week, hence she couldnt make it. 

The models walked the ramp and Khushi with her team was busy handling this event to her best. The award winning designers of AR walked the ramp too with the models and were applauded for their fabulous work. They even addressed the media as to what new AR was going to offer their clients. Everything was going smoothly. Then came the last action of the moment, the speech by Arnav Singh Raizada himself. He walked the ramp in his casual manner, only to be cheered by the crowd. Khushi felt proud for him. He deserved this because the man had really taken AR to a new heights in a very less time. Aman passed him the mike and Arnav finished winded up his Business speech within 5 minutes. Looked like AR was entering into some new tie ups in Paris and this was the highlight of today's event. Once he was done announcing Business he extended his arm towards Khushi for her to join.

Khushi's jaw dropped. Was this necessary? As the media now covered her, she didnt have any option but to walk on the ramp and stand next to her husband. She was not used to so much of attention anywhere. The people around were looking at her with curiousity.

Arnav: This event wouldnt have been great without the efforts put by my wife and her team. So Ladies and Gentlemen, please put your hands together for my wife, Mrs Khushi Singh Raizada.

Everyone clapped for her and she was overwhelmed by his surprising appreciation. Khushi saw Tanvi looking at her with agitation. So was Anjali Jha who had not expected Arnav to do such a favour for his wife. She felt it unnecessary.

Arnav: There is one more announcement I need to make. Recently, there has been a lot of backtalking about our marriage. I want to clear that air here.

Now this was shocking. Khushi looked at him with equal curiousity that was running in the hearts of the people here. What was he supposed to announce? He suddenly placed his arm securedly over Khushi's waist and pulled her closer.

Arnav: We are planning to start a family soon.

Khushi's breathe hitched. Family ? Means babies? Is he out of his mind? Everyone who actually wished good for them clapped hard whereas the ones jealous, like AJ, Tanvi, Amrita and few other fan girls of Arnav Singh Raizada were succumbed in shock and anguish.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 53


The media rushed forward, towards the stage, with a loud cheer to ask further about the personal lives of Arnav Singh Raizada and his wife. He refrained answering anything beyond this. Aman Mathur, the middleman, like usual, stopped the Media from getting to Arnav and Khushi.

Aman: No more questions please. The Dinner Party is about to start for the Guests.

The security came ahead and took the media to the other hall where the Fashion Show related questions were going to be handled by the AR management. Arnav walked with Khushi, down the stage. Khushi wanted to catch hold of him, somewhere private, and ask him why he lied about their future plans? Their relationship was already at stake and he was announcing that they are starting a family soon? How could he? But in the presence of so many people, including his family and outsiders, she really had no chance to shoot her anger towards him. Also, she was bone tired and hungry. At this condition, she did not even have that much of energy to argue back. Arnav led her to the backstage where surprisingly his family was standing and waiting for them to arrive. Daadi remained rooted, she could read from Khushi's expressions that whatever Arnav announced, was also a surprise for her. This was nothing but one of her Grandson's stunt which he might have to play only for saving their marriage's dignity before the world.

Ayush was the first one to come forward to Khushi and Arnav. He knew, expressing anything to Arnav will not be good, he will as usual shrug his father's blessings considering them worthless. So he came to Khushi and blessed her by placing his palm over her head. She was perplexed. How was she supposed to react to this?

Ayush: God bless you both for the right decision. I will be waiting for that day when you will announce having a Raizada heir in your womb Khushi.

Khushi read Ayush's eyes and tone. He was very nostalgic at the moment. Arnav had a keen eye on Tanvi and Mrs Amrita Raizada who were bubbling fire.

Tanvi: This is a Sham, Uncle. ASR is lying. Dont you know he and Khushi are not staying under the same roof from past few days? How can they start a family then?

Ayush knew about this distance, but he thought that if his son announced something so personal, it definately meant serious.

Arnav: Who are you to question us that?

Khushi peeled her eyes away from Arnav to Tanvi. She had expected Tanvi to be furious, afterall she was the first one to show her disinterest in anything that can link Arnav with Khushi.

Tanvi: I am your well-wisher Arnav, we know each other since years. This woman standing beside you is just not worth it.
Arnav's fingers dug deeply into Khushi's wrist.
Amrita: Let it be Tanvi, he will realise it when this same woman will leave him again like before.
Ayush: Amrita stop cursing my Son.
Amrita: I am not cursing him, I am warning him against that woman.
Daadi: That woman is his wife Amrita, stop using such cold words for her.
Amrita: Maa ji, my words sound bitter but think of this. She is now staying under seperate roof, tomorrow she might even leave the country without letting Arnav know. She has done this before. She can do this again.

Khushi stared at the stony face of her husband as if he would hit anyone who utters one damn word against her, further. She had to take a lead out here and show her support.

Khushi: I am not going anywhere Aunty.

There was an acute silence spread around as she spoke further. Even Arnav was baffled at her sudden intrusion.

Khushi: Arnav is right, we are going to start a family soon.

Tanvi gritted her teeth.

Tanvi: How? Staying in two different houses? Will you explain that to us?
Khushi: I am moving back to my house, TONIGHT ( She added)

Tanvi's jaw dropped. Ayush and Daadi were happy.

Tanvi: That's.. that's impossible. How can you?
Khushi: Why cannot I? I am his legally wedded wife. I know we had some differences which led to an intense argument, but we dont relent about it anymore. I shouldnt have left that house in the first place, just for a fight. I act senselessly sometimes.

It would he hard to say Arnav was not astounded by her confession, though he did feel she was only ending these backtalks about their relationship, by heart she had still not forgiven him.

Khushi: We both have realised our mistakes and we are moving forward, I dont think anyone else stands a chance to deny it from happening.

That one sentence shut Amrita and Tanvi's mouth.

Ayush: I shouldnt have got you both here, if this is how you were going to behave. Sorry Khushi beta, but we have to leave.

Amrita gave a cold stare to her husband and walked away. Ayush followed her too. While daadi talked to Arnav for a bit, Tanvi got the perfect time to threaten Khushi before she actually implements anything what Arnav announced to the media a while ago. Arnav had his eyes on the girls though they were few feet away.

Tanvi: This is going to be a complete disaster Khushi. You have chose the wrong side.
Khushi: Couples dont choose sides Tanvi, they choose each other. That's what we did. And I dont give a bloody damn to your threats. Go out to the media and give them details about my identity, it wont affect me. But let me tell you something, it will affect one important person you know, AJ.. She wont be happy if people get to know we are step sisters. That's what she has been trying to hide from years. Considering her background and power, I am sure you dont really want to piss her off.

Tanvi was caught in her own web. Yes, she was aware that AJ does not want anyone to know about Khushi being the illegitimate daughter of Shashi Gupta. Tanvi still had used this content only to threaten Khushi but looked like it had backfired.

Tanvi: You will repent on this. ( she pointed out in anger and then hurried out)

Khushi took a deep breath and turned around. Arnav had finished his talk with Daadi and he was waiting for Khushi to acknowlegde it.

Daadi: Well done Khushi, I am really proud of you. The way you handled Amrita and Tanvi was excellent.
Khushi smiled weakly and then her brooding eyes remained on Arnav. He realised this night was going to be long, considering he will have to justify why he announced sommething so irrelevant to the media.

Khushi: Daadi, please tell him, I am coming back home only to save the reputation of our marriage. There will be no other compromises done, beyond that.

Instead of getting angry, she felt him smirking at her.
Arnav: Daadi, please tell her, I am in no hurry of having babies, either. I cannot handle two at a time.

Khushi's jaw dropped. His sense of humour was getting better. Daadi chuckled at their indirect conversations, passing through her.

Arnav: I am sending Aman to collect your bags from Lakshmi Nagar.
Khushi: I dont need his help. I will manage to do it myself.
Arnav: Okay, then I will send a car to pick you up when done.
Daadi: Send a car ? You wont go to pick your wife ?

Khushi though pretended unaffected who picks her up from home, she was still interested to know what other work he had in that same time slot?

Arnav: Something more important has come up and I need to manage that Daadi.
Daadi: Hmm. Okay. Can we have food ? I hope there is some Vegetarian food to fill my stomach.

Daadi was pure Vegetarian in her diet. Though the rest of the family members didnt follow her.

Khushi: I will take you there Daadi, come.

She led Daadi to the Buffet counter and they both started serving themselves enough food. Khushi did manage to keep her eyes on her husband who was still looking busy in this Event. He was the host of this event afterall, everyone had to meet him, see him, and talk to him. He flawlessly made an impression on almost everyone he shared words with. The next one who shook hands with him was none other than Shashi Gupta, her father. She got tensed. Arnav's stern expressions seeing SG here made it all the more complicated.

Shashi: Congratulations ASR. Nice work.
Arnav: Thank you. What are you doing here? As far as I remember, you were not in the invited Guests list.
Shashi: I couldnt help myself from not being a part of it. Anjali warned me too but.
Arnav (cutting his words): Your presence hurts her SG.. Enough of all the pain she had to undergo.. I will not tolerate you or anyone else to even think of hurting her again, knowingly or unknowingly.

His words were enough to threaten any man to stay away from his wife. Shashi felt torn by this rejection. Even after being so close to Khushi, he was not allowed to see her. He slowly removed a small box from his pocket and then showed it to Arnav.

Shashi: This success is hers too. I had got this gift for her. Please allow me to give it to her.
Arnav: No. ( he was still very firm of his decision)
Shashi: Fine.. ( tears welled up in his eyes) at least give her this on my behalf.
Arnav clenched his jaw. He simply couldnt deny the old man further. He snatched the box from him.
Arnav: I cant promise if she will accept it or not. I will try.

Shashi was intrigued by his unpredictable comment. He gave a quick stare to his daughter, Khushi, who was trying her best to avoid any eye contact with him, and then he strode out of the Party hall. Arnav kept the gift in his pocket and then continued meeting other guests.

****************

The packing up of clothes was quick, Khushi managed to stuff everything in one bag and gave a final look to her house. This place had been her saviour when she needed some privacy from Arnav and the conditions which had worsen between them. Though she had still not forgiven Arnav, she did not repent on her decision to go back in that house and stay with him. It was necessary. She heard the car horn outside. Locking the house she got inside the car. At least Tanvi's matter will be cleared. Though that woman will not leave them at peace so easily. Technically, it was her last day today for the AR Company's event. She will have to report back to her main office, Jashn, from tomorrow. She will be assigned a new client, a new event. She will miss her team in AR. They had really cordinated well with her. In few minutes she reached the house. No one came out to pick her bags. Even Mohan, the driver, drove the car out of the mansion after dropping her. Is no one home? She remembered Arnav telling Daadi that he had some urgent work to take care of. That's why he didnt come to pick her up. She stepped inside, dragging her strolley and pushed the main door open, it was dark inside. She could hardly see anything. Why were the lights off? She left her bag inside the door and slowly walked ahead, trying to check where everyone has gone? She was usually afraid of dark. It always had managed to weaken her. Has Arnav done this on purpose? No.. Why would he do that? She had walked enough feet inside when suddenly she felt something soft tickling her feet.

When she bent down and picked that thing in her fingers, she realised it was a Rose petal. That's when the lights turned ON, not all, a few , but enough for her to see the living room clearly. There was a pathway of rose petals made from the door till the staircase. Even though she had sensed who had done this for her, she couldnt help but smile. She had always been this romantic kind and expected her partner to behave the same way, it was fate that she settled down with an arrogant husband like Arnav Singh Raizada. But today he kind of surpassed it by taking these efforts. And then there was a shower of Rose petals from above her. She raised her head to feel the rose petals slide down her form. This was truly unexpected considering how much rigid her husband's nature is. This had to be the most lovely surprise of her life, where she was greeted with so much perfection and desire by someone.

"Congratulations Sweetheart" came a loud cheer from a familiar voice, her husband Arnav Singh Raizada was getting down the stairs, in a rich Black Tuxedo, staring at her intensely. So this was one of his way to celeberate the little success of the Fashion event of which she too was a crucial part. He reached her in no time and extended a Dark red rose to her.

"And welcome home"

She was confused whether to accept this Rose from him or not. Will he take it the other way? She did not want to upset him, his efforts in welcoming her should be paved off somewhere. She took the rose from him.

Khushi: Where are all the maids?
Arnav: I gave them a holiday today.
Khushi: That means you did all these preperations, yourself??

He gave a gentle nod, impressing her even more.

Arnav: (softly tucking her hair behind the ear): This is the first and the last lavish welcome that you are getting, for returning back in this house. Because hereon, you will never leave me and go. Ever.

These little cute words had a huge warning in them which she couldnt ignore. She tried not to respond to that.

Khushi: I will head back to the room.

The moment she turned, a soft music played around them, he had a small remote in his pockets which played that music. The music was from one of her favourite old romantic bollywood song. She felt his arms slowly sliding around her waist, and pulling her behind. Her back hit scooped in his chest as he securely locked her in the circle of his arms.

Arnav(Whispering in her ears): Your favourite song..

Hell yes!! She knows it. He doesnt need to remind her, that too so sensitively.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 54

The music was from one of my favourite old romantic bollywood song. I felt his arms slowly sliding around my waist, and pulling me behind. My back scooped in his chest as he securely locked me in the circle of his arms.

Arnav(Whispering in my ears): Your favourite song..

Hell yes!! I know it. He doesnt need to remind me, that too so sensitively.

I felt the urge to give in, he was going really out of his box to show me how much he wanted me in his life. But something was still missing. He could easily get away like this, everytime, if I forgive him today. People learn from their mistakes, I had forgiven him once for the distrust he had shown on me, with respect to Viraj's matter. Now, I cannot give that forgiveness again, because he had really gone too far in hiding my idenity from me, whatever his reasons were, he had used me as a commodity in exchange of some favours from my father. That cannot be forgotten so easily. I unwinded my arms from his, and turned around.

Khushi: I had mentioned it very clearly out there, I am not heading back here because I want a new start in our relationship.. So stop being so cheesy now.

That statement surely hit his ego somewhere, nope, infact everywhere.

Arnav: Our relationship doesnt need a new start. You consider it or not, according to me we just faced some ups and downs in this marriage, we never ended it to start again.

He was right. We never ended it, we simply couldnt. May be because I respected this marriage more than anything else in my life.

Arnav: I know why you returned back home Khushi.

Now that interested me. I folded my arms to know what reasons he gives me.

Arnav: I was there when Tanvi was throwing her disgusting words at you in the office the other day.

I was bowled by this revealation.

Arnav: I wanted to break that woman, right there and I would have done it, but I wanted to see how you react to that situation. Either you would have gone by her words and stayed away from me or polish your fighting spirit and give her back what she deserved. I waited.

I was astounded.
Arnav: When I didnt see you reacting at all for 1 - 2 days, I was worried if you were taking her words seriously.
Khushi( interrupting): And that's why you announced it before everyone, about we planning to start a family, right ? So that this will again instigate me.
Arnav ( noded ): To come back.

I sighed deeply.

Khushi: Always very manipulative. How could I underestimate your way of handling our relationship? You can never let me go. But tell me one thing Arnav, earlier, you wanted me for your Business purpose. So that you could get some favours from Shashi Gupta. Why do you need me now?

I had raised a very valid point, something which my heart wanted to know too. His gaze peneterated through me sharply as he closed the distance between us, once again.

Arnav: You are the best thing that ever happened to me, how would I let you go Khushi?

Well, he had a point. He cannot get a wife better than me, who can handle all his tantrums. I try not to extend this topic, it might end up in a way that can get me in trouble.

Khushi: You done? I am very tired right now. So, good night.

The moment I tried to leave, he blocked my way and then picked me up in his arms. I swayed my feet in the air to resist. The smirk that he had on his face at that moment was worth spending million dollar for.

Khushi: What are you doing?
Arnav: Giving some rest to my wife's tired feet.

I was about to utter something else, when he shut me up again.

Arnav: Give some rest to your mouth too, it must be equally tired.

What the hell!! He was using my own excuses and twisting them against me? He led me to the bedroom and pushed the door open using his feet as his hands were busy occupied, carrying me. I hope he hadnt decorated the bedroom in a similar way like the living room. My hopes paved off. The bedroom was as normal as I had left it once. The only difference was that, the old grey white walls behind our bed had few photo frames of mine, few solo ones and one with Arnav, clicked during our Rajasthan trip. As far as I know, he was not a man fond of displaying any kind of attention to his old memories using such photo frames in the room, but he impressed me a bit by taking this initiative. I look back in his eyes to know what reasons he gives me for this little change.

Arnav: If the good memories surround you, it will accelerate your love for me.

Valid point. But I dont really comment over it. He puts me back on my feet. I take a while to scan the room again, as if recollecting how much I missed being here.

Arnav: (little mischieviously): One more thing.

He holds my arm and leads me to the little Devi Maiyaa's idol which was placed at the table below the mounted LED. This Idol was gifted to me by Daadi when our marriage was fixed. I had placed it inside the closet, considering he wont like it to be displayed in the room, but once again, he shocked me.

Khushi: What about this?

He lighted the Diya which was kept beside the idol.

Arnav: Promise me you will never leave me again.
Khushi: What?
Arnav: Hmm.. Before you start living here like normal, I want you to take this oath. I cannot sustain your frequent In and Out's from my life anymore.

He sounded genuine but "OATH" ? Like really?

Khushi: Are you okay? I know you dont believe in such heavenly Oaths..
Arnav: But you do. And I know you will never lie while promising something before the Idol. So do it. ( his voice sharpened)

I was okay to promise but then seeing the desperation in his behaviour, I thought of taking my own time.

Khushi: What if I dont?

He glared at me with frustration and the next instant I found him gripping my wrist, holding my palm two inches above the flame of the Diya which he just lit. He was forcing me to make this promise to him.

Arnav: Say it!!

I could see the pain and anger mixed in his eyes while making me do so. He really was desperate enough for that promise from me, that I wont be leaving him ever again. His grip tightened. Anger boiled within him which he was still trying to control from venting it out on her. He was so strange. Just few minutes ago he was so romantic and now he had turned the same wild beast, he used to be in the initial days of their marriage.

Arnav: I am already putting up a lot with your attitude and tantrums Khushi. So just give me something which I can be assured of for the rest of my life. I dont think I am asking anything huge from my wife.

Though I didnt like the way he framed that sentence, I could feel the need of this promise which he longed to get from me. Not wanting to waste any more time, she I what he wanted to hear, my palm still held over the flame.

Khushi: I am never going to leave this house, or you. I promise.

It was like he was punishing me for leaving him earlier, without notice. He left my wrist as a call buzzed on his mobile. He gave me a smouldering look and then answering the call, he walked out of the room. He acted like that obsessed husband who cannot even stay for a minute without his wife. May be me distancing from him and this house had created that impact on him. He didnt wanted to take a second chance and hence was securing himself from that kind of pain again.

*******************

Arnav had to take up a video conferencing call from the Drawing room that night. When he came back after an hour, he saw Khushi lying on the bed, sleeping. It was so pleasant to see his wife back in this house, this room and on his bed. Good that she didnt sleep elsewhere, he would not have tolerated it. He came inside, locked the door, got changed into this night suit and then sat on the bed, next to her, watching her sleep. Does she even realise how much he missed her? He remembered those horrible nights when he kept drinking, limitlessly to avoid thinking about her. If she hadnt returned back, he would have impaired his Liver for sure. Though she still wanted to keep distance from him, he was okay until she was around him, in the same house, as his wife. He pulled the comforter over them and shut his eyes to get a blissful sleep.

The next morning when Khushi woke up, she found her leg tangled with his. Both of them opened their eyes at the same time. She gave him an absent-minded look and tried untangling her feet from his, but until he would move his feet off hers, it looked impossible for Khushi to get up.
Arnav purposely pressed his feet more on her.

Arnav: What's the hurry of getting up? It's hardly 06:00
Khushi: We both have our professional lives too apart from this house. Have you forgot?
Arnav: Ohh .. That!! ( he moved his feet away, allowing her to get off the bed)

He kept admiring the way she tied her hair in a bun and neatened her night dress.

Khushi:  I am making Omlette's for breakfast.
Arnav: (getting up too): What happened to that routine of asking your husband what he would like to have, instead of throwing your own choices?
Khushi frowned.
Khushi: Dont expect me to forget how you hurt me and keep doing things as per your convenience. I wont.
Arnav: Okay.. I wont have a say on this matter. The kitchen is yours, this husband is yours. Cook anything you like, until my stomach is fed, I have no issues.

She liked his cool reply and then headed back to her routine.

Their breakfast was quiet, except for the calls which Arnav kept getting from Aman.

Arnav ( sipping his juice): You have seen the premises right? Then go for it.
Aman: But ASR it will be good if you have a look once.
Arnav: Okay, take an appointment for tomorrow, we will see that place.

He saw Khushi struggling to get the jar of water which was towards him. He passed it quickly to her while attending the call. She poured the water and then checked the time. She was getting late. Arnav realised that too.

Arnav: Will call you back Aman.

He disconnected the call.

Arnav: Finish that Salad.
Khushi: I have eaten enough. Besides I am getting late.

She was about to get up when he made her sit again.

Arnav: No compromise with health. Work life will go on.  Finish it.
She appreciated his little efforts he was showing like a typical husband.
Arnav: I will drop you on time.

She didnt deny and kept eating. Suddenly she remembered something.

Khushi: I need your bank account details. Personal account .( she demanded)

His eyebrows cocked high. Not that he mind sharing it with her. He wiped his lips with the napkin after finishing the breakfast.

Arnav: Why ?
Khushi: Can I answer it in the Car? I am really getting late for work.
Arnav didnt pressurise her, they both got up and headed quickly to the car. Once he had taken the wheels and started the engine to drive out, he again asked her the reason for that bank account details she wanted from him.

Khushi: I am going to start settling the money, part by part, which you paid on my behalf to Viraj. My Salary is up tomorrow, So.

He didnt say anything. He was quiet. She had expected him to argue, why so soon? No need to pay it back etc etc , but his silence somehow disturbed her .

Arnav: I will share with you in few hours.

She didnt know how to react. She plainly noded.

He dropped her at Jashn Office and then headed to AR. When he entered his cabin, AJ was waiting for him there. She smiled sarcastically at him and then looked at her watch.

Anjali: 5 minutes late? For the first time in 5 years. Not good to break a record like that Arnav.

He knew she was mocking, he also could see streaks of jealousy in her tone.

Arnav: I wont give any excuses.

He opened his laptop and started login into it.

Anjali: So? How is it going? Started making babies already?

Arnav stopped typing and raised his head to meet her eyes.

Arnav: Looks like someone is too eager to see her sister's kid.  I am sure, you will become a good aunt AJ, so what if you are a worst Sister? ( he teased back)

AJ and Arnav's relationship was always like this, quaky yet strong.

Anjali: (clenching her jaw): I wonder how come she agreed to get back in your house ? What happened to her morals? She looked quite confident when she meant not forgiving you for the way you hide her identity.
Arnav: AJ.. ( he leaned back on his chair).. I have told this many a times, and this one is final. I dont want to discuss my personal matters here. Should we get back to work ?

AJ glared at him for few seconds and then opened the file she was holding from such a long time to discuss the figures in it. She didnt know what to defer from Arnav's expressions and behaviour. Was he really starting a family soon with Khushi?

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 55

It was afternoon, Arnav Singh Raizada missed Khushi's presence already in this office. Though in the recent days she had chose to stay apart from his cabin, he had his eyes on her. At least he knew she was around him and that itself gave him some satisfaction. But now, the event was over. She was back to her original office, Jashn, and she will be handling some new client. How was he supposed to manage here, without her? He took a deep breath to hold his thoughts. He cannot bother her work, he knows how much she loved doing it. Anything that makes his woman happy, makes him happy too. Aman knocked the cabin door and came inside.

Aman: ASR.. You called me?
Arnav composed his thoughts and reached back to his Desk.
Arnav: Yes. Send my Saving account details to Khushi.

As Khushi demanded, he asked Aman to email the details to Khushi so that she can put the money, which he cleared to Viraj on her behalf,  part by part in his savings account.

Aman: Okay I will email her. But did you happen to see the pictures of the premises? The one which we might finalise for our new office at the suburbs of Delhi?
Arnav hadnt checked the pictures yet.

Arnav: I havnt. But I will check them in a while. How do you think the set up is? Worth for an AR enterprise to accomodate there?
Aman: Yes it looks cool. Stylish interiors and the pricing is still fitting our decided budget. But even then I would say the earlier proposed land acquisition deal was better. The one which needs SG's signatures on it.

Arnav didnt show any interest on it. Just like the many other favours which he used from SG, almost blackmailing him for being his Son-in-Law, he wouldnt do it henceforth. He had stopped taking favours from anyone, at least not at the cost of using Khushi or their relationship in between.

Aman: Boss ? What are you thinking? This Project in the suburbs will only delay everything. And the cost is going to hit directly on you, individually.  ( he warned again)
Arnav: How many times do I have to tell you Aman, I know what I am doing. I am not bothered how much money I am going to spend for this premises.
Aman: Fine. Check the pictures and we will go tomorrow to see the place.

Once Aman left, Arnav leaned back on his chair. He was just trying to focus on how he can mend things between him and Khushi, when Arushi entered his cabin. He was very surprised to see his little sister here.

Arnav: Aru?

She immediately rushed in his arms and hugged him tight. When she pulled back he saw a deep worry on her face.

Arushi: Why didnt you tell me you and Khushi Bhabhi were not staying together?
So she came to know. However hard he had tried to keep her away from his marital life, it didnt happen.
Arnav: It's past now. We are back together, in the same house.
Arushi: Yeah. I saw that video of your Event. Are you serious ASR?? You want to become a father? So soon?
Arnav couldnt help his smirk from widening.

Arnav: Why?? I am at the right age and so is Khushi. (he said tapping her nose with his finger)
Arushi: Yes, but I will become old. Imagine your kid will call me "Bua".. Ewwww!! I am just 16.

Arnav couldnt hold his laugh. He hugged Arushi again and made her sit on the couch.

Arnav: Oh so that worries you. I see. So what do you say? We should wait till you become 20?
Arushi giggled.
Arushi: No No.. dont alter your plans for me. As it is, I am very eager to see how your kid turns out to be. I am sure he/She will have the Raizada genes kicking.

That was so true. He was not very fond of kids but he would definately liked to have one of his own.

Arushi: If you dont mind, can I come to stay with you and Bhabhi for a few days? I promise I wont disturb you guys at night.
Arnav: Stop talking so naughty, you are still very young to discuss all this.
Arushi: I am 16 ASR. I know everything Okay?
Arnav: Stop it! ( he somehow didnt like to believe his sister is so much advanced)
Arushi placed her finger on lips.
Arnav: I dont mind if you join us home. You are always welcome.
She almost jumped in joy.
Arushi: Okay, I will inform Dad, Mom and Daadi. Will reach your home by evening. Bye..

She hurried outside his cabin leaving him startled. Here he was planning ideas to get Khushi closer to him, it would have been possible had they been alone. Arushi's presence between them might make it tricky now. He picked up his phone and messaged Khushi. She needs to be informed about this. 

"Arushi wants to stay with us. I couldnt deny. Just few days. Is that okay with you?"

He waited for her reply which came almost instantly.

"She is most welcome"

He knew the equation between Khushi and Arushi was not rocking but it was getting better with time. Arushi knew how much he cared for Khushi which is why she had started respecting her too. And who can ignore a girl like Khushi for long?

*****************

Khushi was actually happy that Arushi will be staying with them. It only meant Arnav will keep his hands off her and maintain distance. This is the best way to make him earn her forgiveness. Little did she know that her husband can turn every loss of his into an equivalent Win, almost the same instant. Khushi was out of her Office in the evening and was about to book a Cab for herself when a White SUV stopped right at her feet. She didnt take long to recognise whose car it was. Arnav pulled down the glass of the window and gestured her to get inside. She didnt argue. This was not a place where she can pick up an arguement, that too with her husband. Once she seated beside him and strapped the seat belt, she blurted.

Khushi: I dont need drive back home every day. I can manage on my own.
Arnav: Sure you will. You can drive by yourself from tomorrow.

He put his glares and accelerated the engine. Khushi was confused what he meant by that. The rest of the journey back home was quiet. None of them spoke to each other. Once they reached home and he parked the car, Khushi was surprised to see a Brand new Mercedes parked alongside their other cars.

Before she could get inside the house, he held her hand and brought her closer to that car.

Arnav: The latest model of Mercedes and your favourite color. I hope you like it.
Khushi now understood what he meant earlier. He bought a new car for her? She looked at him with painful expressions.
Khushi: I cant accept it.
Arnav: I am not asking you Khushi, I have given it to you already, its yours.
Khushi: I cant afford it Arnav ( she barked angrily)
Arnav: Your husband can and yes I know how much self made you are. So if you want, once you settle the payment of Viraj to me, start paying me off the EMIs for this Car. I am sure Aman must have given you the account details.

Khushi's nose flared. He was not going to take her no, but she would still Deny.

Khushi: I said I dont want this Car.

She tried to leave only to be dragged back by her husband and this time he pinned her to the car door.

Arnav: Take it or expect me daily in front of your office to pick you. Choice is yours.

Why? As always she was slowly intimidated by him. He had that in his genes .. to bully people.
Khushi: Why? Why should I accept your gifts? I remember you never liked spending for me. I have heard you talking to Aman about this.

So she was again digging the past. He felt his throat parched with remorse.
Arnav: (cupping her cheeks): It was those times when I didnt believe you. I am already very embarrassed by the way I have treated you in the past Khushi. Dont make it more worse.

It felt convincing. But Khushi maintained the same scornful expressions as he put forth his heart before her.

Arnav: Whatever I have earned and will earn in future is for my family. "YOU" are my family Khushi. If I am not allowed to spend on you, then whom? It is not about how much you earn.. It's not if you can afford this expensive car or not. I wont mind dropping and picking you everyday at work. I am gifting you this car so that henceforth you dont have to be dependent on me. Is it not an enough reason to accept it.

He was not being pushy anymore. He was explaining every little reasons he had to gift her. Before she could give her acceptance, they heard Arushi's voice from behind them.

Arushi: Hi ASR.. hi Khushi Bhabhi..

Arnav dropped his hands from Khushi's face and both composed again to receive their guest who was going to stay with them for a few days. Arushi quickly rushed in Arnav's arms, hugged him and then she hugged Khushi too.

Arushi: What are you both doing in the parking? And Oh my God.. New car? Wow..
Arnav: That's for Khushi.
Arushi: Cool. Congrats Bhabhi..
Khushi smiled. Khushi headed first inside the house whereas Arnav and Arushi followed her, as usual Arushi had so much to share, right from her mother's reactions towards her for planning to stay away from them.

The rest of the evening passed with lots of talks, mostly from Arushi's side. She was a very bright girl, it was the other side of hers which Khushi was noticing, apart from being a replica of Arnav. While Khushi continued her kitchen chores, Arnav dropped Arushi to her room.

Arnav: Grab some sleep now.
Arushi: I will..
Arnav covered her with the duvet.
Arushi: ASR.. Is everything really okay between you and Khushi Bhabhi?

Arnav stiffened. Was their discomfort that noticable?
Arnav: Why did you ask?
Arushi: I could feel it. I somehow did not see that compatibility between you both.
Arnav: What do you know about compatibility? You are hardly 16.
Arushi: Not again ASR.. Come on.. I am not a kid. I have seen couples. They dont maintain so much of distance between each other, like you and your wife. She was sitting opposite to you while eating? She should be next to you right? All the time I felt she was being repulsive to every look you threw at her.
Arnav didnt wanted to lie anymore. Arushi had guessed it enough and she was right.
Arushi: You guys are pretending, anyone can see it.
Arnav: Yes. We are pretending.. But we will work it out.

Arushi felt very bad to know that. She immediately embraced her brother and patted his back.

Arushi: It will be fine ASR..

He appreciated this little gesture from his sister. He pulled her back

Arnav: I have been a jerk to her. Always. She is not wrong in pushing me away, I am responsible enough for her repulsion. I wish I had not went to that extremes in my past.
Arushi: I cant believe it. My brother can never do wrong to anyone.
Arnav: I have Arushi. I have broke her trust.. I have misunderstood her. I made her life with me a hell.
Arushi was surprised to know this side of her brother. She always had seen him showering love.
Arnav: I hope I can mend things quickly between me and Khushi because I really cannot stay without her.

A wide grin escaped from Arushi's lips. She kissed her brother's cheek.

Arushi: Awww.. I have seen this kind of love in movies. It's heartbreaking to know that my brother is craving for love from his wife who is unwilling to see his efforts.
Arnav sighed.
Arnav: She will see it slowly. I am confident about it.
Arushi noded. Arnav shut the night lamps off.

Arnav: You stop thinking about all this and go to sleep.
Arushi: Hmm.. (she cuddled her pillow lying back).. What have you planned to do?
Arnav had no plans as such. He was incapable to planning anything right now, considering his mind was occupied in various areas, right from his business to his personal life.

Arushi: What am I asking, I know how bad you are at planning things. But now I am here. I will help you.
Arnav: No.. You dont have to get into all of this.
Arushi: Why not? I want to see my brother happy and I have all rights to help him.
Arnav smiled weakly.
Arnav: We will devise some plans tomorrow, it's too late now.
Arushi: (giggled): Perfect. Good night..

Arnav returned back to his room, only to find Khushi lying on the bed, pretending to sleep. He freshened up, Khushi was still in the same position. He came forward, his eyes never left her face. He could see her eyeballs moving inside her socket as if trying to analyse what his next move would be. Placing one knee on the bed, he leaned to pick his wife in arms. That's it, she opened her eyes and held his T shirt for support.

Khushi: Put me down, what do you think you are  doing?
Arnav gently placed her back to the other side of the bed. His figure still hovering over her.

Arnav: You slept on my side of the bed.

She scanned the bed once and then realised he was right. She had used his side of the bed. It was her fault. She was very deeply thinking about Arnav and his thoughts about she being his only family. She didnt realise when she slept on his side of the bed.
Arnav: I wont mind if you want to use that side with me. It leaves us with only one option though. Either of us have to be on top of the other.

Khushi saw him smirking at his own comments, as if he literally imagined that scene. She pushed him away, making him fall on his side of the bed.
Khushi: Stop dreaming.

Yes, right now it all seemed like a dream, but he knew those nights are soon to come when they will share the same side of the bed, leaving the other half almost vaccant.

_______________________________________________________________________________





Part 56

Arnav was busy in his private Gym, at the ground floor of house, when his sister Arushi joined him there. She tapped her forehead seeing her brother working out.

Arushi: ASR. Like seriously? Is this the way you plan to win your wife?

Arnav was startled at her question. He stopped doing the push-ups and got up, wiping his face with the towel. A frown appeared on his face as he tried to analyse what his sister wanted to explain.

Arushi: At this rate you might win her after few years.
Arnav sighed in frustration.
Arnav: Aru.. come to the point.
Arushi: My point is.. you cannot be wasting time here, use this time in doing something awesome for Bhabhi.

Arnav could see understand her anxiety but what was he supposed to do, his wife would still be sleeping or may be getting her shower.
Arnav: Like?
Arushi: Do something, she does for you every day.. Like.. uhh. haan.. make breakfast for her.
Arnav: Excuse me? Breakfast?
Arushi: Dont tell me you dont know to cook ASR.
Arnav: I do.. But..
Arushi: Then that's it. Make it for her today, serve it to her. She should feel special.

The idea was not that bad. How  come he didnt think about it earlier? Such small gestures will be the ones that Khushi will notice. She was not very fond of luxury of gifts, but such little things might catch her eye.

Arnav: Okay, let me quickly have shower and then I will be in the kitchen.

Arushi happily gave him a thumb's up. He hurried back to the bedroom and fortunately his wife was still sleeping. He had a quick shower and then returned  back to the kitchen. This was going to be a huge task for him. Arushi was already there.

Arushi: What does she like?
Arnav: Poori's and uhh.. yeah.. aloo sabji..
Arushi gulped nervously.
Arushi: Woww.. Isnt that too oily?
Arnav had a weak smirk on his face. He assumed the same but then he cannot change his wife's likes.

Arushi: Okay. you get the dough ready, I will boil the aloo's for you.
Arnav:  I dont need help. You just sit and watch..
Arushi: Ohh come on ASR.. Have you seen the time? She will be awake any moment now and we need to hurry up before she lands here.

Well, Aru was right. Arnav needed her help to cook faster. The duo started working together to make a delicious breakfast for Mrs Khushi Singh Raizada.

****************

Khushi came out of her room, all dressed for office, she had few files in her hand and she was busy talking over the phone to her Boss. As soon as she saw the steaming hot breakfast already served on the table, a sigh escaped her lips. Who made it? None of the maids ever made the breakfast in her presence. Then who? She saw Arushi getting the Jug of Orange juice from the kitchen, to the dinning table. Khushi winded up her call and reached her.

Arushi: Morning Bhabhi.
Khushi: Good Morning. What is all this? Were you hungry? You should have wake me up. I would
Arushi: Sshhh.. (she made her sit on the chair and took her purse and all the files from her, placing them aside) .. Just relax ..

Before Arushi could serve her, Khushi caught her hand and stopped her.

Khushi: Arushi.. I am sure you are not alone in this. Who made the breakfast?
Arushi chuckled.
Arushi: Your guess is right. Your husband means my ASR made it for you.

Khushi was startled. Meanwhile Arnav came out holding a container of the over fried Poori's. He was not very used to cooking but he still managed to show some skills. Their eyes met for a brief period and holding all her thoughts and emotions right there, Khushi started serving herself. Though her eyes became moist knowing the efforts her husband had put to win her, she still tried to maintain her calm. His jaw hardened. She didnt say anything about it? Why? Arushi was equally surprised. But she didnt raise that question now. They all started eating. The Poori's were crisp but the Sabji was perfect. It was too delicious for his first attempt. Arushi kept praising Arnav but no words came from Khushi which depressed him a bit.

After the quick breakfast, Khushi got up to leave.

Khushi: I am not taking your car today. ( she was talking about the mercedes which he had gifted her)
Before Arnav could retaliate, she clarified further.
Khushi: My whole team is accompanying me for the Client meet, and they are going to pick me up for today. I will drive myself from tomorrow.

Well, good news for him. At least she accepted his gift. He noded. She received the call of her team who were at their house gate. She quickly said a Bye to sibblings and left. Arushi sighed in disappointment.

Arushi: She didnt say anything about all this? How bad!! She cannot insult your attempts like this .. Let me talk to her..

Arushi was about to get up but Arnav stopped her.

Arnav: No Aru.. She is angry, she needs time.
Arushi: But..
Arnav: She will come by Aru.. Dont you worry.. And thanks for this idea.. I loved cooking for a change..
Arushi quickly passed him a hug and then started planning their next attempts to appeal her.

****************

Khushi met their new client and was totally shocked when she was introduced to him. Can this be a coincidence? Shyam Jha, husband of Anjali Jha was here to seek guidance from the "Jash Team" for the upcoming 50th Birthday of his Father-in-Law, Shashi Gupta. She protested her own thoughts of stepping back from this meeting, and started interacting as if she was not bothered of what relationship she shared with the Client's family.

Khushi: So Mr Jha, can you please define us your needs. Like do you need the Venue to be suggested by us, or is it pre-decided?
Shyam: That's decided already. We are going to organise it in Gupta house.
Khushi noded, making a mental note of it that she will have to visit her father's house, more frequently, for getting this event done. This didnt seem right to her.

Shyam slowly dictated all his needs, the type of cuisine they would prefer, the idea of a theme party, the return gifts, everything.. He was being very clear of what he wanted. Unlike his wife AJ, he was more pleasant to talk. After winding up the discussion, Khushi thanked him on behalf of the team.

Khushi: Thank You Mr Jha.. We will prepare a quotation accordingly and send it to you. If you choose to go ahead, we can then start working on it.
Shyam: Sure. By the way, the birthday is next week. So we dont really have much time. I would prefer if you send me the quotation by the end of today. Will that be okay?
Khushi: Yes. We will try our best. Thank you once again.

Her team got up to leave and so did Khushi. Shyam stopped her.

Shyam: Uhh.. Khushi? Can you wait. I need to have a word with you.

Now she didnt expect that coming..She asked her team to go ahead and wait for her outside the Hotel, where this meeting was conducted.

Khushi: Yes Mr Jha.. (she was still being formal, hoping his talk was restricted to the Event only)
Shyam: I didnt know Jashn will assign YOU for this Event. You may back out from this Project if you are uncomfortable.

Khushi stiffened.

Khushi: What do you mean?
Shyam didnt understand how to convey her this. But he had to.

Shyam: I am aware you are Anjali's sister.

Just as she thought he would be. AJ didnt hide it from her husband at least.

Khushi: That does not make a difference to me at work.
Shyam: Yes. I am sure of that. I already sensed your strong spirit to work, despite of all your personal problems. Actually after watching the AR fashion event, I was so impressed that I thought I will give this Birthday contract to Jashn only. It's just a coincidence that they sent you here.
Khushi: ( taking a deep breath): Coincidence or not.. None of this affects me any longer. I am here to work and I will do that without any descriminations.
Shyam was impressed by her once again.
Shyam: Great. Thank you.

She noded with a weak smile and hurried out of the room. Shyam Jha was happy to get to know his sister-in-law. She seemed to be a wondeful lady.

*****************

When Khushi returned back home, in the evening, she saw Aman walking with a Doctor out.

Khushi: Aman? What are you doing here? And the Doctor? ( curiousity emanated in her voice)
Aman: Bhabhi relax.. ( he turned back to the Dr) Thank you Dr for attending on time.
Doctor: No problem Aman. This is my duty..

Aman and the Doctor shook hands and the Doctor left.

Khushi: Aman will you tell me whats happening here?
Aman: Actually ASR..
Khushi felt her heart racing..
Khushi: Arnav? What happened to him? Is he... is he okay?
Aman: Yes.. he is okay now. just one cut and..

Khushi didnt wait to hear anything, she ran upstairs to their bedroom. Aman sighed in disbelief. Women have their own ways to work. When the man runs behind her, she tends to ignore but when that same man is hurt, she will do anything to heal his pain.

Khushi pushed the bedroom door open, Arnav was lying on the bed, his forehead had a bandage at the right corner, just above his eyebrow. Arushi had just given him the medicine which the Doctor had probably given so that he could get a fine sleep and the medicine seemed to be working. Arnav was actually in a peaceful sleep. Khushi strode to him.

Khushi: What is all this ? What happened to him? Yeh chot kaise lagi? (How did he get hurt?)

Arnav Aman had followed Khushi inside the bedroom. He gave the replies she wanted to hear.

Aman: Khushi Bhabhi.. Calm down.. ASR needs rest.
Arushi immediately came and hugged Khushi.
Arushi: ASR met with an accident Bhabhi..

Khushi was shocked at that revealation.

Aman: Actually me and ASR had been outskirts of Delhi, to see our new Office location. The furniture renovation and installation was going on, and Boss was so engrossed in his thoughts that he missed seeing a log of wood ahead of him. He banged his head annd fell down .. Thats how the wound.

Khushi's heart ached but she needed to comfort Arushi too. She pulled back Arushi and wiped her tears.

Khushi: Stop crying.. If he comes to know you were crying, he wont like it.
Arushi noded with a heavy heart.
Khushi: (to Aman): What did the Doctors say?
Aman: The wound is not deep. It will heal in few days but he might have headaches in between. So right now he is on some strong sedative which will give him a good sleep for few hours.

Khushi swallowed her tears down the throat and headed to the bed. He was in deep sleep, she sat next to him.

Aman: I know Boss is a very strong man in all terms, but I still feel he is hiding some kind of stress. I hope he handles that soon. Anyways, I will leave now. When he wakes up, I will call him to take the handover. I am sure you wont send him to Office for at least a day. Bye Arushi..

Aman left and so did Arushi. She had to inform this to Daadi also. But Khushi just couldnt leave his side. She kept staring at his wound. What thoughts were keeping him restless these days? Was it just business or even the personal life problems which he had striving to sort with her? After 3 hours when Arnav woke up, he saw Khushi changing the bandage from his forehead. She was startled to see his eyes wide awake suddenly and staring at her.

Khushi: I .. I am sorry.. I tried changing it gently but. you still woke up..

He tried to touch the wound but she stopped and placed his hand back on his chest.

Khushi: Is it hurting?
Arnav noded and protested to sit on the bed rather than lying down like this. She helped him.
Arnav: I was out for how many hours ?
Khushi: 3 hours.. It's because of the sedatives.

He leaned back on the pillows while searching for his phone. Khushi read his mind..

Khushi: No phone calls right now. Make it tomorrow.
Arnav : You dont understand the seriousness lady.. Give me the phone.
Khushi: No.. Just close your eyes and lie down until I get your dinner. ( she warned him and left outside the room)

Arnav liked when she gave so much of attention. So like a good boy, he waited until she returned after 10 minutes with the food plate. She redirected the plate in his hand and he started eating quietly. All she did was watch him, try to analyse what he was going through.

Khushi: How could the sharp eyes of Arnav Singh Raizada miss to see a log of wood in his way?

He didnt respond. He kept eating slowly.

Khushi: Which thoughts had occupied your mind ? What were you thinking then? ( she forced him for a reply)
He replied to her in a dissatisfying tone.
Arnav: I was thinking about the growing distance between me and you.

She was speechless.
Arnav: Mishaps happen Khushi, especially when your mind and heart are not in sync.
Khushi inhaled sharply.
Arnav: These days you dont seem to be even in talking terms with me. That hurts Khushi.. Today morning, you didnt say a word about the breakfast.. Were you so short of words? I dont think so.

There it comes. he wanted her to praise him for her morning efforts.. SHe would have done it 100 times, had their relationship been normal. The good part was that, this man had lowered down his anger. If it had been the earlier Arnav Singh Raizada, he would have pounced back for an appreciation, in the morning itself. He had changed, her eyes could see that. Her heart could feel that. But loyalty cant be won so easily and she was done forgiving people who had never left a chance to mistrust her, to reject her.

Khushi: That's exactly how I felt when during our newly married phase, even after being in the same house, you didnt talk to me. I used to wait for the entire day to hear my name from your mouth ,and when it didnt happen, I assured myself that may be... may be next day you will call me, talk to me.. But No Arnav.. All I got that time was rejection and lonliness..

His anger was slowly surfacing on his face.

Arnav: So you are giving me what I gave you back earlier? You know why I did all that, dont you? I mistrusted you.  I was in an illusion that time that you ditched me.. Do you have any such reason now to return back the same behaviour to me Khushi? ( she was quiet).. If I remember Khushi, in Rajasthan you were even ready to move on with me, start our married life again forgetting all the past. If it hadnt been for your identity matter which I hide from you, today would have been different for both of us..

Yes.. she cannot give him the punishment after forgiving him for his past deeds.

Arnav seemed to be pissed off right now. Blood rushed to his body speedily. But he still showed some patience to talk to her.

Arnav: You can avoid me as much as you want, dont talk to me, dont hear me out, dont look after my health, dont do anything for me, if thats makes us even in the coming days. And if in the future, you feel we are even, just extend your hand to me. I will hold you and we can start something fresh, dumping all the past mistakes.

His straight forward words cut her heart. He got down the bed, in an attempt to leave.

Khushi: You are not supposed to get down.
Arnav: Dont ( he warned her curtly and using all his energy, he got down the bed) Now where is my phone?

She didnt hide it any longer. She pointed out at the direction of the drawer under the TV. He opened the drawer, took his phone and paced at the poolside to make a few official calls

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 57

It hurt.. even more than she expected. Punishing someone dear to you, does not save you from pain. Khushi wanted Arnav to feel the bitterness for how he behaved with her in past and hide the identity of her father. But while doing so, she was equally getting the scars in her heart. All this can be stopped, if she forgives him... if she accepts him.. Last night had been no different than the few previous ones where they shared the bed but confined themselves in their respective sides, facing their back to each other. She had felt him waking up late night, as his head was aching badly. She woke up too and tried to help, but he didnt let her do it. He took the medicines and slept again, asking her not to disturb her sleep because of him. Why are men so harsh ? They commit mistakes and then even expect the woman to forgive them soon, and when that doesnt happen, they again detach themselves, for their big fat ego. Today morning Khushi had purposely wake up early and she made the breakfast ready for the Raizada sibblings. Though Arnav never came down until she left for work, not even to eat, Khushi still gave enough instructions to Arushi to feed him the breakfast she had cooked and then also give him the medicines. Hope he had taken them. She dialed Arushi's number to check.

Arushi was with Arnav, reading the email from his laptop as he couldnt concentrate much on the screen due to his weakness. When the call buzzed she looked at her brother, displaying him the phone screen.

Arushi: Your wife.. I am sure she has called to ask about you.
Arnav: Dont bother her giving my hourly updates. Tell her I am fine and resting. She needs to concentrate on her work.
Arushi noded and answered the call.

Arushi: Yes Bhabhi..
Khushi: Did he eat ?
Arushi: Yes, ASR is fine now.
Khushi took a sigh of relief. Arushi had kept the phone on speaker mode, so that Arnav could hear her voice.

Khushi: Is he awake?
Arnav noded at Arushi to deny.
Arushi: Uhh.. no.. he . he is resting. Sleeping I mean.
Khushi: Will you do me a favour Arushi?
Arushi: Yes.. Tell me ..
Khushi: There is a gel in the side drawer of our bed. Just apply it on his forehead, it will ease the pain.

Arnav felt his heart melting down. The woman showed she didnt care to forgive him, then why so much concern for his pain?

Arushi: Okay.. I will.
Khushi: And I have called the nurse. She will come in the evening to change his forehead bandage. Ask him not to do it himself.
Arushi smiled.
Arushi: Yes Bhabhi.. And anything else?
Khushi was trying to remember if there were any other instructions which she had to pass on. Suddenly Arushi interrupted.
Arushi: Should I give him a forehead kiss too, on your behalf?

There was a pin drop silence from the other end. Arushi chuckled seeing the reactions on her brother's face. He was red like a tomato.

Khushi: You are becoming too naughty these days Aru..
Arushi : Did you just call me Aru?? Like ASR does?
Khushi was speechless. That was so instant that she didnt realise.
Arushi: Dont think so much. You can call me that.. Afterall Bhai and Bhabhi should get the same rights..

Khushi exhaled with satisfaction and then dropped the call.

Arushi(to Arnav): I like her..

She hugged Arnav, pushing the laptop away. Arnav caressed her back.
Arnav: I like her too. ( his deep intenseful voice was enough to show how much he liked his wife. )

*****************

Khushi had sent the quotation of the Party in Gupta house to Shyam Jha. She was just waiting for his response to kick start the Project , if he chooses to accept. Anjali had given the entire responsibility of the Party for her Father's birthday, to her husband which he willingly took upon his shoulders. He decided not to let Anjali know who was leading the Party arrangements. He was very well aware she will dismiss that idea and even create a huge fuss and arguement. But he was not as cold as her. He knew Khushi was his father-in-law's daughter from another woman. He had seen his father in law mourning for her. So why not give a chance for the father - daughter to unite? He accepted the quotation sent by Khushi and asked her to start working on this event.

Khushi had a discussion with the team and she assigned them their tasks. Somehow she wanted to sit behind and let her team handle this. She will enter that house, only when she was really needed. Though she knew it wont be for very long and soon she will have to step in Gupta house to check how the preperations are going.

It was evening when she returned back home, today was her first day drive in the Car which Arnav gifted. She couldnt get a vehicle better than this. She quickly made her way to the bedroom and saw Arnav trying to pull out the bandage on his own, to change. She snapped back.

Khushi: I told you, this is not your job. The nurse will be coming any moment. Cant you wait?

She snatched the first aid kit from him so that he stops.

Arnav: She is not coming.
Khushi: What? Why?
Arnav: I got her call. Seems her father is sick. She wont come today.

He didnt wait to know her expressions and started pulling out the bandage himself, again. Khushi held his arm and sat opposite to him, close. Their eyes met for a brief period.

Khushi: Let me do this.
Arnav: I can manage ( he replied shoving off her arm)

She again captured his hand and this time her grip was strong. He let it go. He averted his eyes elsewhere, allowing her to attend his wound. She removed the bandage slowly, the wound was still fresh and needed a good dressing. Cleaning the wound again with a fresh cotton, she slowly started bandaging it. Her bangles tickled his cheek in the process, which made him meet her eyes again. A current passed in her body as she met his gaze.. He realised the bangles belonged to his mother, they were the traditional ones which was passed on from Daadi to his mother and now to his mother's bahu, Khushi. She saw him looking at her bangles. And then his look fixed on the diamond studed finger ring, which he had made her wear during one of their Dinner date together, recently. An unknown spark ignited in her body again. She thought he would ask her why she was wearing it still if their relationship didnt matter to her, but she was wrong. He just stared elsewhere and in few seconds she heard him growl in pain. It was her fault. She was so lost in him that she didnt realise her fingers pressed on his wound.

Khushi: Sorry.. I am sorry.. I..

He inhaled deep gesturing her she was forgiven.

Khushi: Is.. is it paining??
Fear etched on her face as she saw him nodding a yes.
Khushi: Where?

He moved his finger towards his chest and placed it on top of his heart.

Arnav: Yahan(here).. It's aching here Khushi..

This was certainly not what she expected him to confess.

Arnav: But I know there is nothing you can do about it. My punishment is not over yet. You are helpless before your mind, just like I am defenceless before my heart.

Why?? Why such heavy words, she thought. Her inner soul revolted against his behaviour. Arushi's knock at the door made Khushi wipe her moist eyes quickly and fake a smile.

Arushi: Hey?? You back?
Khushi: Yes, just few minutes ago..  Thanks for looking after my husband in my absence.

The way she declared that word 'Husband' made him still have hope that she will forgive him some day.

Arushi giggled sitting next to her.

Arushi: Aww.. Mention not.

While Arushi continued talking to her brother, Khushi went in the bathroom to get changed. The file which she had brought home, was lying on the side table. She forgot to place it in the closet. Arnav's eyes fell on the client name.. JHA??? He didnt like peeping into other's work, but he couldnt resist himself. He opened the file and read the contents of it. What the hell was she doing? Arushi was no longer in the room, she had been out to receive a call of her friend. Arnav shut the door so that he could speak to Khushi about this. The moment Khushi came out, she found his angry glares on her.

Khushi: What ??
Arnav: You are working for SG's birthday party??

She was stuck for few seconds trying to decipher how he got to know. She was not going to hide this from him, but his present health was not suitable to take such a big news, so she had ignored. Khushi wiped her face and quickly placed the Towel aside. She didnt know where to start.

Khushi: Yes, and I am being just professional.

In the next two strides he reached her and clutched her arms, pulling her close.
Arnav: Are you? Why Khushi?? Why are you always bent in hurting yourself ?

She didnt understand anything. She  closed her eyes for a moment to gather some strength.
Khushi: Guess I am unfortunate, whenever I think I can be happy, I am pushed back in the pit of misery.
Arnav: No.. ( he sharply replied) No one pushes you, its you who always keep jumping inside it.

She was angered at that comment.
Khushi: It's easy to accuse Arnav, I know its not true.
Arnav: Okay.. You want me to explain why I said so? Then listen.. You had a choice.. To accept SG as your father or move on.. What did you do ? You rejected him, which is totally acceptable, considering the fact that he wronged you and your mother. He had no guts to accept you wholeheartedly before the world, as his daughter. When you had decided it then why didnt you stick to your words? Whom are you doing this for? Yourself? Or in the name of your profession?? It's disgusting Khushi.. You dont have to hurt yourself again by the same sword which wounded you.

Yes... may be he was right. Arnav gently cupped her face, his anger now turning into a worry for her.

Arnav: His mere sight will hurt you again, surfacing all those memories which you want to wash off from your heart. Dont do this to yourself Khushi.. Because I cant see you in pain again.. Not because of that man. Please..

Tears started rolling down her cheek and the next moment she tugged onto him like he was her only support. He did not sympathize on her, he was motivating her to be strong and chuck the matters from her life that gives her pain. Her tears slowly turned into sobs. He caressed her back, trying to ease down her cry.

Arnav: Sshh... Stop crying..

She couldnt.. Neither she had that strength to detach from him and think strong, nor she wanted to think what her next decision should be? What baffled her was the fact that Arnav Singh Raizada had read her inner mind and voiced out to her that she need not carry the baggage of her past so much on her shoulders. She should learn to let it go.. They stood together, rooted at the bedside, holding each other in arms, so tight, that there was no room for even air to pass between them. Arnav felt a lump in his throat seeing her in this state.

Arnav: Khushi... calm down.. Or else I will have to go beyond my limits to stop your sobs..

That's it. She stopped crying the next instant, though she knew he would not do anything like that. She trusted him that much. She slowly withdrew herself from that hug and looked in his eyes. He wiped off the wetness from her eyes and cheek with the back of his finger and kissed her forehead. That one kiss felt soothing. As if she was burning in fire, and someone just placed an ice on her.

Arnav: I wont force you to step back from this Event. The choice is yours.. If you think you can handle this, I am always there with you... No matter what..

His assurance had took their relationship level to new heights.. This is what the nature of a true devoteful and loving husband is, to respect and stand beside his wife, in all aspects of life. In her heart, today, she had already forgiven this man, for everything.. Because she knew he will never ever repeat the same mistakes again. He might have given her immense pain and tears before, but now all he had for her was Love.. Trust and respect... Which every woman desires from the man of her life.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 58

Amrita and Tanvi had invited Anjali Jha for Dinner at Raizada house. Daadi was busy in some Satsang with her old age group. Ayush was out of town and Arushi was already staying with Arnav and Khushi. So this was the best time and place they could meet each other and plan something big, to kick their common enemy out of their path.. Anjali had willingly accepted the invitation. Amrita was the first one to ignite the fire.

Amrita: AJ.. I had expected more from you. I think staying with Arnav, you also are following his ways.
Anjali looked sarcastically at her.
Amrita: Arnav never considered Arushi as his step sister. He loves her like his own blood. I think you are walking his path now. If you dont do anything soon, we will find you and that Khushi in the same house one day, gardening with your father, together.

Anjali became furious. She banged the glass of water on the table, almost spilling the water everywhere.

Anjali: Mind your tongue Mrs Raizada.
Tanvi gulped and handled the situation which her aunt tried to worsen by her silly talks.

Tanvi: AJ.. Please calm down. Aunty didnt mean to hurt you. But consider what she wants to point at. You are behaving so docile towards Khushi as if you are not bothered if your father proclaims her to be his second daughter to the world.
Anjali: Dad wont do that, ever. He knows me, my anger.
Tanvi: So will you let that Khushi sweep off from your hold? Just like that?
Anjali: I never said that Tanvi. I know what I have to do with her. She must be flying high because Arnav is supporting her, unlike before. But this happiness is not going to last forever.

Tanvi's face brightened.

Tanvi: What are you going to do?
Anjali: You will know once that happens Tanvi. This time I am going to drop such a huge bomb of misunderstanding between them, which will never cool off. I know Arnav, he can do anything to grow his business. He might be backing off a little considering his growing attraction for Khushi, but a man who has always considered Money and Profit as his only aim, can never push it away for longer.

All the three women laughed heartily. Remotely, the three had promised to shatter the world of Arnav and Khushi but least did they know that power of love. Nothing and no one could defeat that even if the whole world is standing against it.

******************

Khushi woke up the next morning, to find her husband missing on the bed. Where could he go? Last night she had faced a tornedo of emotions with respect to her decision of continuing her Father's birthday event or not. Though the conversation with Arnav started with arguments, it ended with him showing support towards her decision. It was a rare combination in him. If he had immense arrogance, he had equally softened up for her now. That change was fairly visible in his eyes. She looked at his pillow and bringing it close to her body, she cuddled it to her heart. She could smell his presence in it. Her eyes closed again, as if she was  enjoying sleeping in his arms. The mere thought of it made her heart pound. Suddenly the bathroom door opened and he came out. Khushi opened her eyes and realisation hit her hard. He was still wounded, bruised. She immediately got up seeing him freshly showered.

Khushi: How did you manage to shower alone ? ( she asked with exasperation)

Arnav seemed to be perplexed at her concern. His mouth twitched for a smirk.

Arnav: I didnt know you planned to help me Shower..

That one response was enough to let her jaw drop.
Khushi: No.. I... i meant.. You.. I ..

She was short of words and her eyes stopped staring at his form, realising he looked extremely adorable without any T shirt over his upper body. What the hell was wrong with her? She cringed with embarrassment. The next ring on his mobile fortunately ends this fizzy moment between them. He answered the call.

Arnav: Yes Aman.

Though he keeps talking to Aman, about business, his eyes keeps rolling on Khushi, as she folds the duvet and keeps it back in the closet, the way she buns her hair and clips it at the top looking in the mirror. Khushi was not innocent to ignore his deep stares on her, but she liked it now. It made her feel "STILL WANTED" by this man. Khushi purposely stretched her arms in the air, to detangle her neck muscles and saw him swallowing hard. She could read it in his eyes. He wanted to drop the phone and take her in his arms, right now. If he still maintained the distance, it was only because she hadnt clearly told him, he was forgiven. Khushi wanted to hug him hard and say that aloud. The door knocked and Arnav immediately shifted his attention to open the door. Arushi was holding a tray of three cups.

Arushi: Good Morning ASR..Hi Bhabhi..

Arnav took the tray from her and dropped the call.

Arnav: Which direction did the Sun rise today ? Or is my Aru growing up to be a decent woman?
Arushi blushed and started serving the coffee into the three mugs. As the three started to sip their Coffee's Arnav remembered something important.

Arnav: How was your ride in the new car yesterday? I forgot to ask.
Khushi: It was great. Got hands on my own wheels after a real long time. I had a rented car when I was in San Fransisco. But obviously, not that expensive and fast paced like this one.

He smiled with satisfaction.

Arushi: My Bhai's choice is always the best. So what are you gifting him back, in return I mean?

The sibblings saw Khushi flush at that sudden request.

Arnav: I didnt gift her for a return gift Aru..
Khushi: (interrupted): No.. She is right.. You .. you have done a lot for me Arnav.. I cannot oversee all that. I .. I want to give you something.
Arnav: As in ?( he moved forward and Khushi was once again speechless)

Why was her heart reacting so nervously as if she had just found her lost crush, once again, after years?

Arushi: Come on Bhabhi.. It should be wild..
Khushi bit her lip, unable to agree or disagree to that. But Arnav showed his support even here.
Arnav: Aru.. Stop embarrassing her.
Arushi placed a finger on her lip, obeying his orders.

Arnav: Take your time (he says smiling back at Khushi and hastily leaves for the closet to fetch his formal clothes)

Arushi rushes to Khushi and whispers in her ears.

Arushi: I have some ideas.. for a perfect gift.. Need some?
Khushi smiled denying to take those ideas at this instant.
Khushi: Let me scratch my brains first. If I dont find an appropriate one, I will contact you. Is that okay ?
Arushi hugged her happily.
Arushi: Always okay..

Arnav sees them bonding and there is nothing else that he could have asked for. Arushi was always restricted to share that closeness only with him, but seeing her extending her love and affection for his wife, it only meant she was normal and mature enough to understand who can be in her company and who needs to be avoided.

*****************

It had been 4 hours that Khushi was working in her Office, but her mind was still busy in other thoughts. What can she gift him that he will remember for a lifetime? Something which he was desperately looking from her? Only her? She got a clue.. But she shook it away because it kind of drove her hormones to some other level. Can she give it to him? Or not ? It was getting embarrassing. The whole gifting thing was getting embarrassing. She hide her face in between her palms, hiding her blush. There is a knock at the cabin, Khushi's boss Murthy gets in. Khushi hides all her embarrassment and welcomes him inside. In all her self thoughts about gifting, she forgot today she had to submit the report of the last event at AR, just a formality which would help her during the appraisals. She continues talking to Murthy and tries concentrating on her work life again.

Murthy: Okay then Khushi, send me the report when you done.

He got up to leave, but Khushi stopped him.

Khushi: Sir.. I .. I wanted to leave a bit early today.
Murthy doesnt question her why but she chooses to explain.
Khushi: Arnav met with a small accident and ..
Murthy: You should have taken an off. I had asked you if you needed to take few offs after your first successful assignment.
Khushi: I know Sir but that's really not needed. I just want to leave by afternoon today. It will be enough.
Murthy: No problem. Take care of him.

She noded happily as Murthy left her cabin.

*****************

As promised to Khushi, Arnav managed to do all his work from home, even today. He knew, until he feels better, she wont let him go to Office. Aman was being very co-operative and handling all the meetings. Arnav was in the living room, working on his laptop. He was bored in his bedroom, alone. This gave him a little change. The door bell rang and HP hurried to open the door. In few minutes he heard a familiar voice which made him raise his head and see the person who had come to visit him.

Arnav: AJ?? What are you doing here?
Anjali smiled and took a seat opposite to him.
Anjali: When my partner stops coming to Office, where else can I be? I am sorry to hear about the accident at the site.
Arnav: I am fine now. What will you have? Coffee?
Anjali: No thanks. It's lunch time and I have plans to have lunch with Shyam.
Arnav noded and his eyes fell on the file that AJ was holding .

Arnav: You needed anything from me ?
Anjali: Ohh this.. Yes.. In fact I am not here to take anything from you.. but to give.

She quickly passed the file to Arnav.

Anjali: Paapa has signed on that deal papers Arnav.. You no longer need to find a new space in the outskirts for AR building now.

Arnav was highly astonished to see Shashi Gupta's signatures on the papers, which he was so desperately waiting to get, from past so many months.

Arnav: How did this happen?
Anjali: Cant believe it, right? But then why wouldnt he sign it ? You are his Son in law. He knows how well you are treating Khushi now a days. He is all impressed and consider this as a token of his love for both you and her.

Arnav gritted his teeth. He thought for a few seconds and tore the papers. Anjali was shocked. She tried to stop him but until then the papers were torn.

Anjali: Have you gone mad ASR ?? What did you do? You waited breathlessly, almost for a lifetime to get his signatures.
Arnav: I have changed my mind now, AJ.. Tell your father, I dont need his favours anymore. I have stopped blackmailing him keeping my wife as a bait. I wont do that ever.

Anjali was shocked. She never expected Arnav to give up his greed for money and Profits.

Anjali: You are going to lose a lot of money if you isolate your work Arnav.. Do you know how much that building costs which you just finalised for your AR office in the outskirts? You will have to use almost 75% of your property to invest in raising a new empire.
Arnav: MONEY.. Can be earned.. Again.. Not love..
His thoughts crippled Anjali's plans to induce more misunderstanding between the couple.

Arnav: You should have realised it AJ, long back, when I made it clear to you what Khushi means to me. You still coaxed your father for these signatures?
Anjali had no words to reply. She just picked her purse.

Anjali: You have lost it completely Arnav..

She turned around and left the house. Khushi, who had witnessed this entire scene, hide behind the Pillar. She didnt wanted to add up fuel in the already raging fire which AJ was burning in. But whatever she heard Arnav saying had impressed her even more. It gave another assurance to her that Arnav Singh Raizada was never going to hurt her again, by using her as a bait to win favours from her father. He genuinely had feelings for her which made her even desperate enough to reciprocate. She wiped off her tears and composed herself. Once AJ was out, she came to Arnav. He was surprised to see her so early.

Arnav: Hi...
Khushi smiled briefly and stood before the Couch.

Arnav: You forgot something home?
Khushi: Forgetting, is not my thing Arnav.. ( her voice was totally soft just like her gaze on him)
Arnav stood up gently and marched towards her.

Arnav: Then what is your thing, Khushi?

His voice sounded mysteriously mischevious. Her eyes lowered. Everything that is related to him, was her Thing now.. She wanted to scream it aloud and say it to him, so that he knows it too. Arnav realised he was intimidating her. Hence he shifted the topic.

Arnav: Did you come early to buy me a return gift?

She met his eyes again. Courage peeking out of her expressions, again .

Khushi: Yes.. and no..
Arnav arched his brows.
Khushi: 'No' because.. My first intention of coming here was to be with you, because even Arushi is not home to look after you. And 'Yes' because it will also get me some time to  Gift you.
Arnav: Smart..Can I accompany you to buy the gift?
Khushi: We dont have to go anywhere Arnav. (she smiled sheepishly, almost confusing him)
Arnav: What ?? Ohh the gift is coming home ? You ordered online?

She didnt wait to answer that. She left for the bedroom, to freshen up so that they can have Lunch together. And Arnav was left wondering what that 'Gift' would be?

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 59

Men were always tricky for Khushi. She grew up without a father or a brother. During her college, she hardly made friendship with boys. Then she met Viraj, a man whom she thought will show her what true love means, but even he left her for his own Career. And then Arnav Singh Raizada made an entry in her life, a man whom she feared in the initial stages of their marriage, yet she was willing to accept him as her husband. But she gave up that thought soon enough, realising he doesnt care for her. She fled to San Fransisco, worked hard, made good colleagues but again no men. She always maintained a one arm distance from men there, in fact most of her colleagues there, even thought she was into women. But again, fate wanted her to return to Arnav. She came back to India in the hope of untying every knot she had with him, but failed , instead she chose to give him a chance. She started accepting him the way he is and the bomb of her identity, her father Shashi Gupta, dropped on her. She suddenly felt her whole world collapsing at her feet when she got to know that Arnav was knowing this, right from the beginning of their marriage and he was using her as a Bait for his own profits from Shashi. BOOM!! she lost her faith in Arnav, AGAIN..She left this house, stayed away from him, but nothing worked. Jealousy and the fear of losing her husband to some other woman (Tanvi) made her reconcile with Arnav and stay under the same roof, though she strictly made it clear to him, to stay away from her and not expect to impose any husband's rights, which he marvellously obeyed. He never touched her, never forced her for anything. He took a 360 degree turn from his original behaviour, to win her slowly. She always saw the change in him, but she chose not to give in to the moment, so soon. His accident made her feelings for him surface again, to this extent that she forgave him for his mistakes. But today, what she saw, heard, the conversation between Arnav and AJ, made her mind clear. He was not going to hurt her again. He had fallen for her and so had she, for him. There were no other doubts clinging in her mind, regarding Arnav, after this. All she had for him was love. She had to give away all her fears of distrust and accept that man wholeheartedly. That can only be his gift for everything he had done for her, until now.

Khushi had no clue for how long she was under the shower, thinking all of this. If it hadnt been the door knock, she would have kept thinking about Arnav, all over again.

Arnav banged the door of the bathroom again.

Arnav: Khushi? It's been more than an hour you are showering. Are you okay??

Khushi bit her lower lip. She had let this man get under her skin. What has he done to her?

Khushi: I am fine. Give me 10 more minutes, please ( she screamed from inside the shower)

Arnav stopped worrying after that. But like seriously, something was wrong with her. She had come home early from work, the first surprise he got from her. Having Lunch together had been like a dream come true. They both were so busy in their schedules that they never had lunch together, except on Sunday's. She had been unusually quiet the whole time while eating, if he remembers, she even ate less.  Loss of appetite, may be. She never had evening showers, unlike today, when she chose to have one. Just like that!!! He had to really talk to her if all was well at her work. May be she is thinking about her new contract of arranging SG's birthday event, too seriously.

The bathroom door opened and Khushi came out in a bathrobe, luckily the robe was not satiny, otherwise it would have been too much to control for him. Water dripped from her hair which she tried drying by a Towel. He was looking at her like a hawk.

Arnav: It took you ages to bath today..
Khushi: It's complicated.
Arnav noded coming to her.
Arnav: I agree. That is why I wanted you to stay out of it. That one event is going to change you for a long period, I cant afford that to happen.

Ohh Damn!! He was talking about the Event she was organising for Shashi Gupta, whereas she was indicating the complications of their relationships which kept her so long under the shower.

Arnav: It's good to be brave but at times its reassuring to show some signs of backing off, for your own good.
Khushi smiled widely.
Khushi: Where do you fetch such lines from? I like them ( And after that she laughed gently)

Arnav was speechless. Was she not serious? Here he was trying to mend her mood, to understand what was keeping her mind so occupied and she surprised him by laughing at his dialogues?

Arnav: I am assuming you had a very crooked day today, which is why you are laughing instead of becoming serious.

That made Khushi laugh even harder. Arnav pressed his palms inside his Track pant pockets, admiring her laugh.

Arnav: You are making me MAD now. ( his tone became serious and indulging)

Khushi stopped laughing after a minute. She gently clutched his arms and met his eyes.
Khushi: I am not emotionally shut down, neither the long long shower had anything to do with the event for SG..

Arnav was thankful that she gave him some clues, on which direction he should be thinking about, right now , to understand her better.

Arnav: What's going on Khushi?

Now he asked her the right question. It was better to listen from her, then assume. Khushi doesnt respond. She kept staring at his face.. the same face which horrified her earlier, which frustrated her when he didnt even look at her, which made her angry when he used aweful words against her relationship with Viraj. Today, all she could find in that face was a yearning for her.. for being forgiven and accepted. Arnav was losing his patience slowly. He held her chin and got her out of the little stance she was enjoying.

Arnav: Khushi, talk to me.
Khushi gulped.
Khushi: I changed my mind.
Arnav: About?
Khushi: Lets go out.. For dinner.. ? Just you and me?
Arnav felt like he was just dropped from the tallest building of the world. Did she propose a date with him? Tonight? May be she needed some fresh air, thats why .. It might not mean anything beyond this.

Arnav: Okay, I will ask Aman to book your favourite restaurant.
Khushi: Not mine. Yours..
Arnav: And.. .why .. is ... that ? (he paused after each word)
Khushi: Will you make me answer, everything, here? Right now? I am feeling cold

That's when Arnav realised she was still in robe, her hair still wet. He gasped and left her chin. He walked to the closet and slid it open. She was confused what he intended to  do. He picked a Black dress for her and laid it on the bed.

Arnav: Dry your hair and change. I will make calls to Aman meanwhile.
Khushi smiled. She liked how he chose a dress for her to wear for the Dinner. This was something new from him. Arnav left the room, closing the door behind him. Khushi feels completely elated. She had to prepare for revealing the most beautiful confession of her life, to him.

*****************

When Khushi came down , all dressed in that same Black Anarkali dress which he chose for her, she saw Arnav on call, checking the reservation with Aman. He was pacing in the living room, and he looked tremendously handsome in that black suit. Where did he change his clothes? She stopped by him and thats when his eyes fell on her. He practically became numb and speechless for few seconds until he heard Aman calling out his name again over the call.

Arnav: Yes Aman.. I .. I am there. Thanks for the reservation. We will be there by 08:00.

He disconnected the call, and her smile was only making him difficult to read her.

Khushi: Sorry. I am very inexperienced about ....this dinner date thing.
Arnav felt little comforted to hear that.
Arnav: You think I have lot of expertise in this? I have never taken a woman out on a Date, if that's what you wanted to know, Mrs Khushi Singh Raizada.

His words soothe my heart and mind. He never dated any woman, is that possible? TRUST Khushi.. TRUST.. Khushi somehow wanted to know all his secrets. Everything he was going through, went through and planned to go through, in their future, together. After Arnav picked the car keys from Mohan, Khushi followed him out.

Khushi: Aru? What about her?
Arnav: Daadi has made her favourite food. She wont be coming tonight.

That kind of ignites Khushi even more. Today she planned to confess and Arushi's absence, are these two interconnected? It's like God was opening every gate which lead her to him..They got inside the car and Arnav drove it swiftly to his favourite restaurant. When she got down, she read the name.

Khushi :Blue Nyle.. Wow..
Arnav: I usually have a record to come here, ALONE!!
Khushi: Glad, we could change it tonight.
Arnav stopped.
Arnav: I like changes to be permanent.

CHANGES? How can Changes be permanent. If it becomes permanent, it cant be Changes any more. But Khushi understood on what context he must have said this. He wanted such moments of dinning together, to come frequently in their lives. She didnt mind it either. The Manager greets and escorts them inside. Arnav chooses his usual table, at the corner of this lavish place, the table very much isolated from the other crowd.

Manager: Ma'am please ..

Khushi realises it's a very comfortable couch, opposite to each other and the center table where their dinner will be served. SHe takes her seat and Arnav sits opposite to his.

Khushi: This is a great place Arnav.
Arnav: Hmm. What should we order?
Khushi: Anything , you like.
Arnav gaspsed.
Arnav: I get it.. This Dinner date is your gift. Am I correct? That's why you are being so specific about my choice.. My favourite restaurant, now my favourite food.. .and so on.

Khushi smiled hard. He had no clue what he was going to get in an hour or so.

Arnav: So, until the food comes, why dont we talk ?
Khushi: Talk about?
Arnav: Anything...
Khushi: We have lifetime to do that Arnav.. ( she managed to give him a slight hint and when she realised he had understood it too, she continued).. I am not leaving you EVER!!

Arnav raises his arm over the table and entwins his fingers with Khushi's.

Arnav: Dont say something you will regret later.

Why did he say that? Khushi felt all her chirpiness fade away. She glanced at him to understand what he meant.

Arnav: It might get very complicated if you stay with a man whom you havnt forgiven yet, the man who has hurt you at every walks of life.

Khushi's throat ached with tears. She pressed her fingers against his. Arnav was gazing at her intently.
Arnav: Come on. I didnt say anything out of the world. I have committed grave mistakes related to you, which is why I am being punished. I accept that heartily Khushi. In fact I am still glad how good you treating me even after so much happened between us.

The food arrived and Arnav concentrates on serving Khushi.

Arnav: Try the lobster, you will love it.
Khushi: I have tried it before.
Arnav: Where ? San Fransisco?
Khushi: Hmm.. ( she took a morsel and so did he)
Arnav: You never told me anything about San Fransisco.
Khushi: You never asked ( what a fitting reply)
Arnav: I am asking now..
Khushi noded
Khushi: I practically did nothing apart from work. You know under what circumstances I had eloped. I wanted to dump my marriage memories so work was the only option, Arnav. It made me stay controlled.
Arnav: And here I was losing control over every silly thing ( he admitted)

Khushi: That interests me now. What did you do at my back?
Arnav arched his eyebrow.
Arnav: That sounds like a suspicion to me.
Khushi: You can skip answering if you take it that way.
Arnav shrugged and continued eating.
Arnav: What I did? Huhh... Where should I start?

That means he really had gone through a lot, Khushi reminded herself and waited to see if he reveals

Arnav: I started drinking, enormously. It lead me hospitalised for a month.

Khushi's breath hitched.. Hospitalised..?

Arnav: How was a man whose wife eloped just in one month of their marriage, supposed to feel like?
She gulped nervously.
Arnav: There were enough people around me to give me a ear, so many speculations, all over the media, newspapers and not to forget, the family members. Everyone had their own reasons why you left me. How was I supposed to react? Alcohol kept my ears closed for some time from all these nonsense. So I took it as my saviour for a period of time.

Khushi: Who.. who helped you heal?
Arnav: YOU. ( his voice turned husky)
Khushi was stunned. What did he mean?
Arnav: Every night Khushi, in that hospital, I dreamt you.. About you .. That rage to get you back in my life and certify all those people who were pointing at me for a failed marriage, kept me alive. You healed me. Unknowingly..
Khushi was beyond words..
Khushi: You must have hated me thoroughly ..

That was true, he agreed. But of course, time changed and so did his hatred.

Arnav: Now.. there is no bone in my body, no muscle left, which can think of hating you.. What have you done to me, Khushi?

Her face turned crimson all of a sudden, the air surrounding them started becoming heavier and burning..

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 60

"Now.. there is no bone in my body, no muscle left, which can think of hating you.. What have you done to me, Khushi?"

Her face turned crimson all of a sudden, the air surrounding them started becoming heavier and burning. She did it to him? It was the other way round, what had he done to her, that she was falling for such a complex personality. She had always liked charming men, those who were easy to understand, easy to talk to, open minded and open book types. Arnav Singh Raizada was just the opposite and still she couldnt keep him out of her heart and mind, for long. How did that happen ? What had HE done to her?

The song played in the background changed and that got the two, back to the present. He left her hand.

"Lobsters taste good hot. Let's not waste that taste" he advised.
This distraction didnt work for her. Khushi's mind was exploding with questions, for him.

"If I hadnt returned back to India, what would you do?" she desperately wanted to know this.
He stopped eating, again and met her eyes.
"I would have flown there, to San Fransisco"

His reply bowled her. Could he do that? Well, she knew the answer already. Arnav Singh Raizada can reach any corner of the world, if he wants to.

"And?" she continues asking.

His eyes twinkled as he leaned towards her, for responding.

"I would have dragged you back home Khushi. Doing everything possible to ensure that happens" his bossy tone was back in action.

A sharp pain striked in her heart. He would have dragged her back to him? Considering the hatred he had for her, those days, she felt little glad that he didnt lie to her. He was being honest now.

"Being so honest might put you in trouble, Arnav" she smiled back.
"After all the mess between us, being honest to you is the only choice I have." Khushi was thrilled. "I dont want to lose you again Khushi"

That's right. He wants her to be in his life, forever. He leaned back on the couch.

"And I had heard someone saying - TRUST is a mighty word"

Khushi recalled, it was she who had uttered this, when they had been to Rajasthan. Arnav continued stating the exact same dialogue, which she had said.

"I want that Trust to be always intact between us. I want us to share everything.. Mind.. Soul.. Body .. And Trust.. Without it we might not be able to handle each other as we are two totally unlike personalities"

It was hard to collate all her thoughts and put them into words for him. How did he remember her exact words? That showed how attentive he is to all of her talks. They continued eating, until their stomaches were full. Arnav paid the bill and lead Khushi out of this place. Once they were out, he realised her walking pace had slowed down. He stopped and turned to her. She was in deep thoughts. He cleared his throat, diverting her attention to him.

"I have no plans to intrude your thoughts, but would you like to have some Ice cream? I know a place, nearby, which will be open at this hour" he offers.

She absentmindedly noded, which he realised too and couldnt restrict himself from touching her chin with his finger and raising her eyes to his level.

"Say it.. What are you holding up, Khushi? You are behaving diffrently today."

The gentle touch of his finger warmed up her entire body. It's better she says. It's now or never.
"You are forgiven" she murmurs. He doesnt react instantly, though he had clearly heard what she murmured.
"For what?" he queries. "Meaning, my mistakes are uncountable, what have you forgiven me for?"
"Everything" her tone softened.

Arnav gulped, dismissing her words, almost immediately.

"We didnt order hard drinks, did we? Are you intoxicated?"
Khushi feels tortured by his negligence.
"I forgive you for everything, Arnav Singh Raizada. Is that so hard to digest?" she snapped back.

Arnav was overwhelmed and the next instant he became serious, all over again. He closed the distance between them, sliding his palm over her nape, drawing her closer, leaving few inches gap between their faces.

"There are some gruesome sins I have done on you, torturing you from our marriage night, ignoring your pleads, devoiding you from my support during the most critical phases of your life, hiding your father's name and so much more"

She nods again. "I forgive all of those" her heart finally stablising back. She felt so relaxed and calm, from inside.
"Why" he asked with the most amusing expression on his face.
Khushi's mouth dried.
"Answer me" he pulls her closer, again. Now this was getting untolerable for her.
"I dont know" her voice falls weak as she stares deeply in his eyes. "I guess, I should learn to let it go.. At least when I am noticing the hardships you are undergoing for earning my forgiveness." she adds.

Arnav is beyond speaking anything.

"I want to come home Arnav...Here.. ( she pointed her finger on his heart) This is my home.. I have burned myself enough staying around you, but if anyone can cool me down, its You. I dont want anyone else to heal me.. I dont want anyone else to heal you..We were made for each other, from the very beginning.. Situations and lack of trust kept us pulling apart. I think, if we keep dragging this, we are going to end the rest of our lives grieving.. I cant let that happen, again. (She pressed her lips into a thin line. She knew what she was doing)

"I am a man of many flaws" he reminds her again.
"You wont harm me, I am sure of that" she replies with great confidence in her tone.

His arm gently drops on her lower back, cocooning her into his body.

"Impressive" he whispers in her hair. Khushi closes her eyes, giving in to the moment.
"Do you want me back Arnav?" this was one last question she had for him. Though she had always seen his desire for her, in his eyes, she still wanted him to be vocal this time.
He gazed at Khushi with an unfathomable emotion. Was that even a question to ask? Cant she see that in his eyes, in his behaviour, in his tone, in his expressions? Any bit he does, reveals how much he was into this woman and she yet needed him to be vocal? So be it. He wont disappoint her this time.
"I want you back like never, forever and beyond forever" his voice is dark enough to give her shivers. She flushed at his confession and the next instant she wrapped her arms around his neck, hugging him as tight as she could. It felt warmer, nice contended and totally secured in his arms. He kept palming her hair and her back for a while, both totally lost in the moment. Arnav's gaze suddenly dragged towards his phone which was ringing constantly, probably from the past few minutes. How come none of the two hear that before? He slowly pulled back from the hug and removed his mobile from the pocket. Khushi tucked her hair strand behind the ear. This was so embarrassing.

"Aman?" he reluctantly answered.
"ASR, sorry to bother you during your private Dinner, but there is something which needs your urgent attention"  Aman sounded nervous but ASR was too much lost in his wife, that he hardly recognised the trouble in Aman's voice.
"Whatever it is, send it home. I am heading there now"
He disconnected the call, keeping the phone back in pocket.
"Ice cream?" he again proposed.
"I am too full" she pouted palming her stomach. His eyes lazily glanced her stomach and then he met her eyes again.
"Okay, lets head home then" he held her hand and lead her to their car. It felt such a bliss to be together, once again. No more pain, no more struggles.

They drove back home, quietly, none of them spoke until he carried her in his arms, once they got down.

"Arnav, put me down, Aru might see us" she pleaded.
"I told you she is not coming tonight. And so what if she sees, I care for no one"
Typical ASR, she murmured while sliding her arms around his neck for support. He made his way inside, with Khushi in his arms. Hari Prakash, who was winding up his work, saw the couple. He took the envelope and quickly rushed to them. Khushi was red like a tomato when she realised they were been watched. Arnav hardly cared.

"Sir, Aman Sir has sent this letter for you. He said its Urgent"
Arnav gestured Khushi to take the letter from his hand. Once the letter was handed, HP left and Arnav made his way back to their room.
"Do you want me to read out the letter for you?" she offers help
"Yes please" he agrees climbing the stairs, slowly.

She tears open the envelope and then starts scanning the contents of the letter. The Subject of the letter itself scares her. She looks painfully at him.

"Arnav.. This is .. how can she do this?"

Arnav comprehends something majorly wrong in the contents of the letter. May be that is why Aman was so much desperate to speak to him. They were already in their bedroom now, he put Khushi down and took the letter from her, he started reading it slowly.

Anjali Jha had withdrew their Partnership, which was going to affect him huge in Business. He had expected she would pull such a stunt. He looked at Khushi who was already in tears.

"She is doing this because of me. She hates me and she is ruining you and your Business because you are on my side"  tears rolled down her cheeks. Arnav immediately wipped her tears and made her sit on the bed.

"Khushi, dont draw any conclusions"
"I had heard it Arnav. I heard your conversation with her few hours back when I returned from work. When you denied taking any more favours from Shashi Gupta, I had seen her face"

Arnav was bewildered to know that his wife had been there at that moment and witnessed his entire conversation with AJ.

"I will sort this out, Khushi. You just dont blame yourself for any of this" he assured her being very specific about the last warning. This was his war with AJ now. Even though AJ considers Khushi to be the source of it, he will ensure his wife is always kept aloof from his Bussiness affairs. "I need to make few calls, would you mind if I leave you alone for sometime?"
"Please go" she whispered nodding her head.

Arnav was about to get up but before he could leave, he kissed her forehead, an urgent desirous kiss which could soothe their raging hormones for some more longer.

"I am down, will come back soon. Get some rest"

He leaves the room whereas Khushi keeps thinking how suddenly their lives changed again. She had not expected Anjali Jha to drag their family issues to Bussiness level. But she was proven wrong. AJ had the power to do anything unrepairable. She had just started her war. Khushi hoped this war doesnt prolong the little happiness which she and Arnav had just begun to cherish, the happiness of being in love with each other and the desire to be together, forever .

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 61

Arnav heads to the drawing room dialing Aman on the way.

“I read the letter, Aman. When did this happen”
“Just after you turned down AJ’s offer” he replied curtly. “You know her powers, she used all of it to expedite the process. In fact, she has even given her statement to the media. She is hell bent in proving that you are no longer competent enough to do Business with her” Aman angrily blurted out everything he knew, in this matter.

“Hmm. What else?”
“She has called a Board meeting tomorrow and looks like she has majority of heads, turning to her favor. It is not good ASR.”
“What time is the meeting tomorrow?”
“At 09:30”
“I will be there” Arnav disconnects the call.

He didn’t have enough time. He knows what AJ’s strategy will be. She has few close knitted people in the Board, she will use them to turn against him and the company. She can stoop to any extent to ensure he suffers. AJ and Arnav have been Business partners for years and they have really achieved big deals, name, fame and money throughout this time. If she wants to end this, she is most welcome, but it can’t be in her favor, never.

Almost an hour pass, Khushi is still waiting for Arnav to return. She knows what he is going through. He is not in the best of his state, right now. All this had to happen today only, when they clear off their personal issues? Should she go and check on him? Maybe he needs her. She has never got involved in his Business, but as his wife, she has a duty towards him. She gets up but her feet stop her. He needs space to decide what actions to take further, she cannot disturb him now. She sits back on the bed, hoping he will sort all of this, soon. She has faith in him. No one messes with Arnav Singh Raizada. A smile full of pride, creeps on her lips. She glances at the watch and then lays down on the bed. She is tired, but she doesn’t want to sleep alone, not when Arnav is so messed up in his work.
Time passes and Khushi drifts into sleep, unwillingly. She wakes up suddenly after some time and gazes at the clock.

“02:30am?”

She looks at the other side of the bed, its unused. That means Arnav didn’t return to the bedroom. Is he still there? In the Drawing room, making calls? No way. She gets up from the bed and hurries down. Fear clouds in her mind as she opens the door of the drawing room. Is he even Okay? She finds him working on the laptop, sitting on couch. Arnav looks exhausted. He stills doesn’t realize her presence. He types something fast and then leans behind, closing his eyes for some seconds. She stops at the door, taking in all his attempts to work and rest, together. He opens his eyes and then rubs his palm over his neck. She moves ahead. She stops behind him; her footsteps alarm him of her presence. She touches his nape gently.

“Is it hurting?” she softly asks, rubbing her fingers over his aching nape.
“A bit” he holds her wrist, drags her forward and makes her sit on the couch, next to him. “You should sleep, Khushi”

Khushi stares in his eyes, it has so much of depth in them.

“Is it too bad?” she tries to check on the situation that has come up.
“I can handle it. You get some sleep” he caresses my cheek softly.
“You?”
“I have a board meet tomorrow, I need to prepare for that” his excuses are worth understanding but a wife can never see her husband in so much stress.
“If you don’t sleep now, how will you impress the board?”

His brow arches.
“I don’t impress people, Khushi. I don’t care whose side they take. I am self-sufficient to run the Business alone” he defends.
“I know Arnav, but if you don’t rest, you will fall sick tomorrow which is not good”

He agrees and nods shutting his laptop. Before she registers what is next, Arnav gently picks her in arms. She doesn’t retort. He has all rights to do so. He carries her all the way to their room and drops her on bed, gently. He stays above her, looking intensely in her eyes. She is about to wrap her arms around his neck when he moves back.

“We should sleep” he murmurs.

She feels embarrassed. What was she planning to do? He was already frustrated because of the situation that AJ has thrown upon him, he needs rest, not a physically reckless night. She nods as he switches back to his side and shuts the lamp. She stays still until he wraps his arms around her waist, draws her closer. Her breathing fastens as he kisses her hair.

“Sleep” he murmurs again.

She nods, wrapping her arms around him in return. At least she is in his arms tonight. That would suffice for now. They shut their eyes and drift into a peaceful sleep.

888
Khushi feels someone caressing her hair and placing a kiss just below her ear. She opens her eyes, sleep still not letting her, be wide awake. It is morning and she can see Arnav fully ready in his three-piece suit, to leave.

“I have to go early, call me if you need me. Okay?” he instructs her.
“I need you now” she complains and the next instant she closes her mouth with her palm. How can she say that? By now, her eyes are wide open and she is totally conscious. She finds him smirking hard at her talk. She sits on the bed, looking quite embarrassed of what she just confessed.

“I am holding up all my patience to drag myself away from you. But you know, I have to go” he replies touching her cheek lovingly. She nods. He lingers his thumb over her lip and then releases it. “Bye” he utters dragging his feet out from the bedside.

“Bye” she whispers seeing him leave. It feels good, this little change in their relationship. He has just left and she is already longing for him. Crazy wife!! That’s what she has become. She checks the time, it’s 07:00 am. She can still manage to get an hour sleep. She jumps back on her pillow, pulling the duvet over her. She wants to dream, open-eyed dream, about them, their future.

888
Arnav reaches his Office and he can see the media already hungry for his images, for his interview, at the Office entrance. His guards hold the media from him and he steps inside, meeting Aman on the way.

“How bad is it, Aman?” he asks walking hurriedly towards the Board room.”
“Very, she has 60% of the Board members by her side”
“Thought so” Arnav scowls as he pierces in for the elevator. AJ reaches there, just the same time. She gives him a mocking look. He doesn’t react. The Elevator opens. Arnav waits for AJ to get in and follows after her, showing his typical gentleman behavior. Aman realizes he should let the two alone, for some time.
“I will take the other Elevator” he quickly rushes to the opposite side and the elevator door closes.

“No one messes with Power, ASR. You should have stayed in my side, at least it would save your Company. You know what 60% board approval means, right? They won’t let me leave. I will be elected to run this Company and you will either have to work under my authority, or resign” she teases him further.
“You always run into conclusions AJ and that’s why you lose. Never mind, right now I feel it’s the best to have you separated from my Company. It was never Yours. If you think I will allow some third person to join hands with me, become a partner of my Company and then snatch it away, you are wrong. Arnav Singh Raizada is too sharp for your witty plans” he scoffs.

Anjali feels confused. He sounded very prepared. Before she could retort to his statement, the door of the lift opens up.

“Let’s discuss this over the Meeting” he extends his arm for her to get out of the elevator, first.

His cool attitude starts haunting AJ. What was going on in his mind?

888
Khushi is at her cabin conducting a team meeting. Every morning, she gathered the team in her cabin and they discussed the progress of the next event which they had to manage for their Client. Once it is over, the team started dispersing. Rashmi, one of her team member, waited until others left.

“Did you watch the news today?” Rashmi asked curiously.
“Why? Anything special happening?” Khushi asked in utter confusion.
“I can’t believe this. Either you are innocent or you want to hide your personal issues from us” Rashmi switched on the Television and put the news channel. The headlines were enough to point Khushi’s brain in the right direction. The news was all about AR Designs. Who will rule it henceforth? AJ or ASR? Who has the vote of confidence? The share price also seemed to be affected for AR, gone down by few margins. Khushi was never into Business news but this was not some news for her. It was related to her husband’s company, it means a lot to her.

“Oh, this” she is hardly able to speak. She sees image of AJ and Arnav, shown posing together, in previous party. The media is narrating stories of their past bonding. They are even speculating that ASR is too involved in his personal life, after his wife’s return which is why he is unable to focus on the Company. Khushi clenches her jaw. All this material was definitely given by AJ to them, that is why it sounds so nonsense. She shuts the TV off.
“Rashmi, get back to work” she commands.
“But Khushi, this is important to you. I was just”
“I know what is important to me right now, Rashmi” Khushi retorted, trying to maintain calm.
“No, you don’t. Look, AJ is SG’s daughter. And who is SG? Our present client. We are organizing his Birthday event. Don’t you think all of this is co-related? If AJ can blame ASR’s wife, means YOU, in all this, then how will she react when she gets to know you are leading this team for arranging her father’s birthday?”

Rashmi is right. She has a point. AJ will not be happy to know she is organizing all this. She might even use this opportunity to her favor and try something nastier, hurting her and Arnav in the process.

“I will see what I can do Rashmi, thanks” Khushi wants to end this conversation here. She will talk to her Boss, Murthy. If he too thinks the same, then she will back off from this event. She does not want AJ to play with the reputation of ‘Jashn’ where she works.

888
The Board meeting begins. Aman is sitting next to ASR, as one of his supporter, though his role is not very much into management. AJ is the first one to speak about this issue.

“I no longer want to partner this company with Arnav. I have had my share in terms of handling his irresponsibility. I am not saying Arnav doesn’t know Business. He knows it just like me, but his disinterest and unnecessary shift towards his personal life is scaring me. I am not used to downfall. And going with Arnav’s ways of running the company, I think it will see downfall very soon. He is wasting money in buying a separate, new premise for AR office set up. And that too in the outskirts of the city. Does he have any clue how much we have to bear for the transportation cost? How will our employees reach the outskirts every day amidst this worst traffic? (she faked a sigh) Sorry Arnav, but I am letting you do this, and if you still want to do it, then I am not going to be part of this Company, henceforth. I am resigning.”

There is an utter chaos after her sensitive speech. She eyes on Arnav winningly. One of her favored Board member, Mr Shah retaliates.

“Anjali, you can’t leave. So, what if you are only the Partner of this company, you still have contributed to its development” Shah stated.
Almost 60% of the board members had the same feedback.
“ASR, do you have any genuine explanation to whatever blames AJ has put on you? Because if you don’t, then you will not get the vote of confidence from the Board. We have invested in this company and we will not let the Company govern by the wrong hands. Instead, we offer you to resign and let AJ hold the authority to run the Company” Shah continues.

Arnav silently gets up and takes the lead now. The chaos fades off the moment he rises.

“I never thought I will be ever seeing this day in the Company’s growth wherein my own Board members, my own partner will try to accuse me of not running the Company up to their expectations. (he looks at AJ) Thanks AJ, you made it happen”

The board members look at each other and then towards AJ. What was happening? Arnav clears his throat and continues his speech.

“I am not going to stop anyone from resigning. AJ entered this partnership willingly. She can step out willingly, if she wants” Arnav gazed at AJ who was infuriated. She looked at Shah so that he could poke Arnav at this point and show support to her.

“Arnav, what about the board? Don’t they have their say? 60% of us confide in AJ for running this company, not you” Shah retaliated.
“Only having 60% of headcount isn’t sufficient to take this decision Shah, we have to consider the shareholding in the Company, as well, which is maximum with me” Arnav finally confesses, letting the cat out of the box.

There is yet another chaos in the room. Aman is not surprised. He was the only one who knew it apart from the rest of the 40% of the good board members. AJ almost jumps from her seat.
“What are you saying Arnav? How is this possible?”
“I made it possible. I bought the shares from the 40% of the board members who favored me and totaled it with my individual shares. So overall, I still have 79% stake in my Company which means I am the only one who is powerful enough to take any kind of management decisions”

AJ was tongue-tied. When did this happen? Arnav smirked.
“What did you think? I will sit and wait for this period to come when you will ditch me, AJ? I am ARNAV SINGH RAIZADA. I think beyond the possibilities. I secured myself for such an act from you, almost months ago. You didn’t even realize it, did you?” it was his turn to tease her.
AJ banged her fist on the table and sat again. Arnav the looked at the board.
“Anyone from the Board who thinks this is injustice can resign with AJ. I don’t need her slaves running my company” he commanded further.

Aman and the other 40% Board members who are supporting Arnav clapped hard. They really appreciated his decision-making capabilities. AJ looks at Shah who is confused on what needs to be done. Should he choose AJ or ASR?? But Arnav makes another announcement which almost clears the rest of the dirt.
“I am going to restructure the Board. Anyone who has not failed to promote a good show for the Company will be removed. And this memorandum will be circulated today with the list of those members, by today EOD. I hope to see only the best people work in the Company and give their fullest, rather than getting intimidated by other’s power and money”

Shah knew he will be the first in the list. AJ gets up to leave. She is very angry at Arnav’s sharpness.

“AJ, don’t forget to sign the resignation, please, before you leave” Arnav mocks at her.

She nods in frustration and leaves the board room. The chaos almost begins again and Arnav doesn’t wait there too. He has better things to do. He comes out, followed by Aman.

“Release the minutes of this meeting to the hungry media. They will love this bite” he remarks sharply to Aman who almost salutes him and hurries out.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 62

Everyone in Arnav Singh Raizada’s favor is impressed by the way he dealt the Company matter. AJ resigned from AR Designs and along with her, Shah and few of her close associates put the papers too. As declared by Arnav, Aman sends the list of the new board to the management and also circulates it in the media. By evening everything is falling in its place in AR office. Arnav finishes all the necessary paperwork. Now that AJ is no more his Business Partner, he will have to ensure everything is handled under his scrutiny. Plus, he knows AJ will not sit quiet. She will interfere again, may be in their personal lives and try to create some problems. He will have to be prepared for that as well.

He leans back on the chair, closing his eyes for a moment. He recalls Khushi’s angelic face when she confessed to him last night about wanting this marriage to work. Her giggles, her simple blushes, he recalls everything. He opens his eyes again. In all this Business issues, he forgot to message or call her. She must be worried. He picks his phone and dials her number. She doesn’t receive it. He gets nervous. Is she okay? That’s when his phone buzzes with her message.

‘In the middle of a meeting, will call you back. You okay, hubby?’

He smiles, reading that and immediately texts her back.

‘I am okay, wife. Got stuck up brutally since morning. But the mess is cleared. Will share it when I return’

He sends the message. The cabin door knocks and Ayush Raizada, his father, steps in. Arnav is surprised to see him here.

“Can I come in?” he formally asks.
“You are already in, dad” he doesn’t get up from his chair but he gestures his father to be seated. Ayush makes his way to the chair before Arnav’s desk and gets seated.
“I heard about the nuisance which AJ created. It’s all over the media” Ayush stated.
“Hmm” Arnav doesn’t show much anxiety in sharing much over this topic.
“Why didn’t you tell me anything. I could have done something to help you” his father seemed little frustrated on him.
“I didn’t need help. And I took some fair decisions to sort this mess. It’s over”
“When were you going to tell me? Or had you planned never to tell me? Am I not related to this Company anymore that you missed talking to me about it?” Ayush complained again.

Arnav fists his fingers and gets up from his chair.

“You handed over this company to me, years ago, promising to never look back at it. If you had shown little interest in growing your hard-earned Business, supporting your Son at that time, we would never end up needing a Partner for this Company. All this mess would never happen. You failed growing this company, just like you failed raising your Son, Dad. So now when your Son is fully capable to tackle his own problems, handle the business without anyone’s intrusion, you are coming back and asking him why you are not informed? What’s bothering you Dad? Why now?” Arnav spats in rage at Ayush who becomes totally speechless.

Arnav composes himself as he sees his father getting up from the chair. There is a sort of repentance on his father’s face.

“Right” Ayush murmurs. His voice is hardly audible. “I am at fault. I was never there when you needed me. I..” he stumbles with the chair but manages to balance. Arnav looks at his father with a cold expression.
“There is no point in digging old graves, dad. Go home and chill with your second wife. As it is, she will not like to know you visited me” Arnav added more fuel to the fire.
Ayush shut his eyes for few seconds.
“Yes. Graves. Our relationship is no better than old graves” he murmurs again and opens the cabin door.  Arnav is still watching him. Ayush turns again to meet Arnav’s eyes. The cold expression on his Son’s face is bitter to watch. He closes the door behind him and leaves.

The moment Ayush leaves, Arnav composes his anger. However hard he tries to avoid these attachments with his family, it only gets worst. He grits his teeth and picks the receiver to talk to Aman, who receives it at the other end.

“Yes, Boss”
“My father must be in the elevator right now. Ask someone to escort him home”
“Okay, I will send someone” Aman responds.

Arnav disconnects the call and sits back on his chair, closing his eyes. Why is this day so bad? So much to go through. His phone buzzes again. It’s Khushi’s message.

‘Meeting over. I will wait for you, at home. Finish your work and come soon, hubby’
He takes a deep breath. How he wants to be at home, in her arms. But this chaos still needs his attention. He replies back to her.

‘Don’t sleep till I return... It’s a request’’

Khushi who reads the message at the other end, almost jumps in anxiety. What is that supposed to mean? She is just driving back home, fortunately she has stopped the car at the signal when this message beeped. Or else, she might have crashed it somewhere. Her blush is still uncontrollable, thanks to the tinted glasses or else people outside will think why her cheeks are so red at the moment. The signal turns green and she accelerates the car once again. She is glad his mood is getting better than last night.

888
It’s 10:00 when Arnav finally gets home. The moment he enters, he sees Khushi talking over the phone. She looks worried. She sees him too and immediately drops the phone, hurrying towards him.

“Thank God you came. I was about to call you” she hugs him and then looks at him with worry.

He keeps the bag on the couch and holds her firm.
“Hey, what’s wrong? Whose call was that?” he asks softly cupping her cheeks.
“Daadi.  She said, your father just suffered from an attack” tears roll down her cheeks while revealing that to him.
Arnav becomes cold and lifeless. Attack? What sort of attack? He keeps looking at her for more information. She touches his cheek.

“He is home. The Doctors are diagnosing him”

Arnav gulps. He should have guessed that happening. Today when he said all that to his father, he had seen how deeply his father was affected. He holds Khushi’s wrist and pulls it away from his cheek.

“I have to go there” he murmurs.
“I am coming along” she commands. He nods and they both leave immediately for Raizada Mansion.
All the while they drive, Arnav is very quiet. Is he responsible for this state of his father? Probably he is.

888
They enter the Raizada Mansion and head straight to his father’s room. They get inside the room, Ayush is unconscious on the bed. He is injected with some Saline and his pulse is being monitored by machines, kept beside the bed. Two of their family Doctors are diagnosing his heart beat, his Blood Pressure. There are two nurses assisting the Doctors. Amrita Raizada is sitting with Tanvi, next to bed with Daadi.

As soon as Daadi sees Arnav and Khushi, she comes to them and hugs Arnav. She starts crying.

“Chotte, please tell me he will be alright. Please” Subhadra whispers.
Arnav caresses his Daadi, his eyes not leaving the sight of his father, even for once. Amrita gets raged seeing Arnav here. She gets up and comes to him.

“What did you tell him? I know he came to meet you today. You must have told him something which is why he got this attack.” She scolds him, her voice getting too loud.
Khushi is surprised. Ayush Uncle had met Arnav today? At office? She gets afraid. She just hopes whatever Amrita is telling, is not true. She does not want Arnav to be the reason for Ayush’s uncle’s present state.

“Amrita, stop it. Ayush is still unconscious and needs all our prayers and support. Stop blaming Arnav for everything.” Daadi snaps back.
Arnav does not give ear to Amrita’s blabbering. He walks ahead to see his father. He stands close to the bed. Khushi keeps watching him from far. He looks shattered. It gets tears in her eyes too. Arnav composes himself. 

“How is he now?” he asks one of the Doctor.
“His pulse is normal. He is unconscious because of the sedatives. We have sent his reports to the lab. We will get the results in some time”
“Do we need to shift him to the Hospital?”
“Not until we get the reports. This wasn’t exactly an attack. It was one of the symptoms of heart attack. He had immense chest pain when Amrita Raizada called us. Fortunately, we started the procedures on time”

Amrita yelled at Arnav again.

“He won’t be alright until you and your wife leave this house. Just get out” she roared.

Arnav who is holding up his anger could no longer control it. He walks to Amrita and drags her out of the bedroom. She shrugs his arm off hers once they reach the lobby. Khushi, Daadi and Tanvi follows them with concern.

“Just shut your mouth Mrs. Raizada. Your husband is fighting for life inside. Don’t push him to hell by your irritating voice” he snaps back at her.
Amrita is stunned to be scolded by him. Khushi feels he is being too harsh on that woman, but it is necessary right now. She waits and looks at that darker side of her husband, again. She hated him this way, earlier. Now, she knows he uses this side of him, only when it is necessary. Behind this darker shade, is the man who only knows to shower love and concern on his people. She puts these lovely thoughts at the back of her mind and continues witnessing her husband, fighting for the wellness of his father.

“Leave my house” Amrita roars again.
“This is not your House” he roars with equal rage. “This house belongs to my father. I won’t leave this place until I see him fine again. And if you have so much of problem seeing me here, then you Get out”
Amrita is speechless after hearing that. Tanvi comes to help the situation here.

“Aunty, please calm down. Arnav is right. Ayush Uncle is his father. He has to be here when Uncle is unwell. Please, let them stay” Tanvi pleads.
Amrita sighs in frustration and leaves back to her bedroom, where Ayush is being diagnosed. Tanvi follows her. Daadi pats Arnav.

“Don’t mind her. She is worried for Ayush, too. Had she not been home that time, we would have lost Ayush. I can’t even imagine that.”
Arnav nods in agreement and hugs his Daadi again.
“Dad will be fine. Don’t worry” he kisses Daadi’s forehead. Khushi smiles weakly seeing him giving strength to his family. However strong he is showing himself now, she knows he is shattered inside. He must be blaming himself for Uncle’s present state. Daadi pulls back from the hug and returns to Ayush’s room. The moment she is gone, Arnav sits on the stairs, totally exhausted. He is dull, passive with no energy left inside him. Khushi feels bad. She sits next to him and holds his arm.

“Don’t lose hope” she assures.

He nods slowly and keeps staring ahead. He is cold and numb. This is not that Arnav Singh Raizada she knew about. He is different. Today he is only a Son who is desperately waiting for his father to wake up and take him in arms. She places her head on his shoulder and keeps caressing his arm.

“I am not lucky for you” she softly murmurs.

Arnav is taken by surprise when she utters that. She raises his head and sees him. He is glaring at her.

“I confessed my love towards you and see what happened. First AJ’s Business mess and now your father” lump of tears forms in her throat which she gulps.

Arnav grits his teeth and sliding his palm over her nape, he pulls her closer.

“Never say that again. It took me a fortune to get you where you belong, here ( he said pointing at his heart) If you shift from here, thinking about luck, the next person on the death bed will be Me”

Khushi’s eyes widen in anger. She hits his chest harder and then hugs him tight. He does not complete the hug. He is mad at her for thinking all this luck crap. She realizes her mistake and then forcefully makes his arm slide on her lower back. She wants him to complete the hug. He struggles not to embrace her but when she attempts keeping his arm over her lower back again, he doesn’t resist. He gives up and hugs her tighter than she could ever expect. He needs this comfort, this warmth at such crucial situation.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 63

The Doctors get the report from the lab and everything looks fine. They inform Arnav and the other family members that Ayush Raizada does not need to be hospitalized. That gives little strength to the family. Arnav and Khushi are still sitting on the Stairs, quietly. Daadi witnesses the way Khushi gives strength to Arnav at this bad phase of their lives. No wonder she is apt for his wife. She comes to them.

“Chotte, Khushi, why don’t you both rest for some time?”

Arnav denies. Khushi shrugs too. They are not going to move from there until they know Ayush is fine.

“Look Chotte, you both are really tired and the Doctors and Nurses are looking after Ayush, tonight. Besides, I have asked Amrita and Tanvi also to relax a bit. If the Doctors need us, they will inform us. Please listen to me” she requests.
Arnav stares at Khushi’s face. She is pale and totally exhausted, just like him. If he doesn’t agree to rest, neither will she. He nods in agreement and gets up.

“We will use my room” he says and holding Khushi’s arm takes her to his bedroom. He leads her towards a huge door on the same floor and opens it. Khushi nervously waits till he leads her inside the room. It’s a huge Master bedroom, with some finest art pieces hung on the walls. There are few trophies and certificates in glass frames which are placed at almost every corner of this room. Even he scans the room, as if he is seeing it after a long time. Khushi gazes at him with a weak smile.

“This used to be my room, once” he utters in a low voice.

Now she understands whose trophies and certificates these are. She leaves his arm and walks in the room, to see all of his achievements. He sits on the bed and checks some messages on his phone. Khushi picks one certificate frame.

“Basket Ball championship?” she looks at him with an awe.
He raises his head and looks at her.
“That was long time ago” he replies softly.
“Not so long” she seems excited to explore more of this room. She walks further and picks a Trophy this time. “Best Drums Player?” her anxiety shoots up. He smiles again and keeping his phone aside he comes to her.
“Past. I don’t play Drums anymore”
“Why?” she curiously asks
His gaze peels off the smile from her face. He doesn’t look fine.
“It’s okay if you don’t want to answer this” she replies reassuringly

He takes a deep breath and clutches her arms.

“I used to play it for Maa” he gulps. “After she left, I stopped”

Tears form in Khushi’s eyes as she hears that. The next instant she throws herself in his arms, hiding her tears from him. This man has so much of pain, hidden inside and what did she see in him all these years? Just anger and hatred. Wish she had deciphered him long ago, that would save some of their miserable days. Arnav keeps embracing her, caressing Khushi’s hair. It should be her to do that to him. He needs that comfort more than her. She pulls away from him and meets his eyes. Seems like he has a lot to share tonight. This house holds the memories of his mother after all.

“I was very close to her. Dad was mostly away, doing Business, travelling around the world, making money. It was just me and Maa, here. Right from waking me up, making breakfast for me, sending me to school, getting me back from school, making snacks for me, helping me in my homework, playing Video games with me, cooking dinner for me, till putting me to sleep at night, she would do everything to shower her love on me. It felt so contended, so secure” he gulps again, walking back to the bed.

Khushi follows him. He stands at the edge of the bed, trying to hide his emotions, but fails.

“She was everything to me, Khushi”

Khushi slowly places her arm over his shoulder blade. He meets her eyes. His eyes are flooded with tears which she is unable to bear.

“She loved dad a lot. She wanted me to look after him, to respect him, to understand him. Did I fail her?” he asks like a small kid who is unable to judge if had committed a mistake or not. Khushi feels pity for him.

“I think I failed her” he admits with pain, without taking his eyes off hers. “I failed her”

Tears rush out of his eyes. She holds him close and tries to wipe off the tears. He pulls her for a hug. Today is a day very high on emotions for both of them. She comforts his back, his neck, pulling him closer, suppressing her own tears to soothe his.

“I miss her. I miss her very much”. She is so disheartened to him in this state. The door knocks. She wipes her tears and hurries to open the door. Arnav gets inside the Bathroom to wash his face. When Khushi opens the door, Daadi is standing with a tray of juices and fruits. She hands it to Khushi.

“Eat something, both of you” she says.
Khushi nods weakly.
“Where is Arushi?” Khushi asks.
“She is in her friend’s house tonight. Doing group studies. We didn’t tell her about Ayush’s health. You know her exams are near. She should concentrate on her studies”
“You are right Daadi. And Uncle will be fine by tomorrow, I am sure of that” Khushi assures.
Daadi touches Khushi’s cheek with love and then leaves. Khushi shuts the door and keeps the tray on the bedside table. Arnav comes out, washing his face. He sees Khushi cutting the fruits.

“I am not hungry”
“But you have to eat. If you don’t, I will complain to your father when he wakes up tomorrow morning”
Arnav smiles. He reaches the bed and sits next to her. She cuts a piece of apple and tries to feed him. Before eating that piece, he holds Khushi’s wrist and softly places a kiss there. Excitement blooms inside her, almost immediately changing the color of her cheeks and nose. He notices that and taps his Index finger on her nose.

“Your nose just turned red” he whispers.

She immediately feeds him the Apple piece and starts slicing the rest of the apple, suppressing all her reactions going inside her heart and stomach.

888888888

Khushi stirs in her sleep, she feels thirsty suddenly. She has always faced problems to adjust in a new place. She opens her eyes, only to find Arnav missing in the room. She gets up immediately. Where did he go? It’s 02:00 am. She wears her slippers and walk out of the room, looking for him. She stops at Ayush’s room door, which is slightly open. She steps inside and finds him there. Arnav is sitting on the floor, next to his father’s bed, his eyes closed, his head leaned over the bed edge, he is fast asleep. However hard he tries to prove he doesn’t care for his father, he fails. He loves his dad. And he will never give up on him. She does not disturb him. He will not get sleep anywhere tonight, not even beside her, but with his father, in his room only. So, she leaves back to her room.

The next morning, Ayush Raizada slowly opens his eyes. He is weak. He scans the room and becomes surprised to see his son, Arnav, sleeping in the half sitting position, beside his bed. He gently strokes Arnav’s hair with affection. That one movement is enough to get him awake. Arnav suddenly looks at him, wiping his eyes. He is glad that his father is awake.

“What are you doing here?” Ayush asks in a feeble voice.

The happiness on Arnav’s face on seeing his father awake and talking to him, is something which cannot be measured. He quickly makes his way on the bed, sits next to his father.

“This is my house too. I can come here anytime I want” he replies holding a stern expression.

Ayush smiles.

“Did I scare you?” Ayush asks. He is clearly indicating about the heart attack symptoms which he faced a day before. Arnav grits his teeth.
“Scare? You took the shit out of me, Dad.” He admits.
“You scolded me son. I couldn’t take your words lightly” he replies.
“But didn’t you see I was concerned for you too. I asked Aman to send someone to escort you back home” Arnav argues.

Ayush smiles happily.

“That was you? I thought one of your employee suddenly became generous on me”
Arnav rolls his eyes at his father.
“That’s your problem. You never recognized my love for you. You have your own presumptions about me, dad. After Maa’s death, when I wanted your attention, you thought I needed a Mother again and you got re-married. Did you ever ask me once, if that’s what I wanted? You knew how much I loved Maa, how could I accept someone in her place, so suddenly? And that too a woman like Amrita Raizada, the most selfish woman I have ever met in my life?”
“Cunning. She is cunning too.” Ayush adds with a smile.
“What the” Arnav is shocked that his father is smiling at him, and not just that he is even commenting over his second wife. “Are you on my side?” Arnav asks him.
“I always was, it’s just that I couldn’t make you realize that ever”

Arnav becomes speechless. Ayush tries to hold Arnav’s hand. Arnav lets him do so. He makes Ayush sit on the bed, stuffing some pillows behind to soothe his back. Once Ayush is comfortable, he again asks his son.

“You don’t hate me, do you?” Ayush asks impatiently.
Arnav nods a quick no.
“I am sorry Arnav, I never gave you my time and love that you deserved. I am equally responsible for all the loneliness that you have been suffering after your mother’s death. I want to set things right now. Between us. Give me once chance, will you?” Ayush requests, apologetically.

To reply, Arnav just leans on his father and kisses his forehead.

“We will work it out, relax. I will call the Doctor’s. They need to check your pulse. I am bothering you too much in this state, which is not right” Arnav slowly gets up and turns. He sees Khushi standing at the door, witnessing all of this father-son scene. She seems happy that they have reconciled. Ayush asks her to get inside. She comes in quickly.

“You seem to be fine now, Uncle. I wish you a speedy recovery” she utters standing beside Arnav.
“Now that you both are here, I will be fine totally” Ayush replies.
Khushi then turns to her husband who is admiring her already.
“I will call up my office for today’s leave”
Arnav nods but Ayush denies.
“No Khushi, I am fine now. You both resume back to work. Even Arnav has his Business to handle, especially after so much changes in the board. You both can come back in the evening to see me” he proposes the alternative.
“But Dad” Arnav tries to negate his idea.
“No, I am the father. You must obey”

Arnav does not argue. He agrees. The Doctors come in and does some tests again. Arnav and Khushi waits until all of this is done. Once the Doctors confirm Ayush’s life is out of danger, they take a sigh of relief and leave back for home.

Arnav is driving the car while Khushi is admiring at her husband’s early morning charm.

“What?” he asks while giving her a quick glance.
“I have never seen you so peaceful, so satisfied” she mutters.

Arnav grins.
“I am peaceful, yes. But not completely satisfied yet”
She gets confused. He does not clear her doubts either. They reach their home and get down from the car. She keeps asking him why he is not satisfied yet?

“You reconciled with your father, what else is left?” she asks while climbing the stairs with him. He still doesn’t open his mouth. Only after they are in their bedroom, he locks the door and pins her between the wall and his frame. She becomes utterly speechless. Is he mad because she is pushing him to answer her doubts? “Arnav” she softly whispers as his fingers dig deep in her shoulder.

He buries his face in the crook of her neck. She gasps.

“Now I am satisfied. That’s where I am dying to belong, with you”
Her cheeks turn pink as she wraps her arms around him and completes the embrace.
“You are drugging me Baby, what have you done to me?” he pulls back slowly meeting her eyes.
She blushes again.
“It’s been two days since you confessed and I am unable to give you my time. First Business and now Dad’s sudden health issues”
“I can wait” she bites her lip holding the urge to go beyond this.
“You can. I can’t” he admits without feeling ashamed of anything.

She feels her entire body convulse at his talk.

“Hmm, so what are you going to do about it?” she asks without feeling shy.

Arnav smirks, the willingness she shows in such matters is enough for him to take a lead.
“I will come up with something. You will love it”
“I love everything that is related to you” she confesses and kisses his cheek mischievously. When he tries to kiss her back, she holds him away. “We are already late for our respective work. Let’s speed up”

She laughs when he sighs in disappointment for breaking that spell of romanticism.

“I will make something quick for breakfast. You have shower meanwhile” she doesn’t give him a chance to deny. She leaves the room and he heads for the bathroom. Amidst all the chores, he will have to give some time to his wife and celebrate their togetherness.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 64

The breakfast is quick. Khushi makes few sandwiches and serves it on the table. Arnav rushes down, fully ready to leave.

“Should I drop you to work?” he asks
“No, you are already late. Besides when will your present profit me?”
He knows she is talking about the Car he gifted her few days ago.
“I love to drive it” she adds with a bright smile.

Her phone buzzes. It’s from Rashmi, one of her teammate.

“Yes Rashmi” She pauses to hear and her expressions become pale. “Okay. We will go together. Let the team know”

She hangs up and her pace in eating slows down. Arnav notices it.
“What’s the matter?” he asks holding her hand over the table.
“Nothing”
“Khushi, we need to be vocal to each other to make this work” his presses her arm and she decides to express it.
“You know I am working on SG’s birthday event. Today, me and my team have to visit his house to evaluate the area and plan the event”

Arnav realizes she is nervous to step in her father’s house. He stands up abruptly and comes to her side, pulls a chair next to hers and sits.

“That’s why I warned you earlier. It is not going to be easy. Besides, after the stunt which AJ pulled in Business, I know she will do more if she knows who is planning her father’s event. If that crooked woman does anything to hurt you, I will end her life” the ASR traits unleashes again in his tone.
“I am not going to run away this time. I want to face it, Arnav. Only because she doesn’t want me in their life, doesn’t mean I will step back from my Career too. I am not going to give up.”
Arnav looks elsewhere, swallowing hard. How on earth will he explain this woman?

“Fine. But if you are so firm in your decision, don’t get nervous at any step you take towards fulfilling it. Okay?”

Khushi knows he is not much in favor of her working for SG’s event, even then he is willing to stand beside her which is more than enough. She wraps her arms around his neck and hugs him. He pulls her closer and then kisses her hair briefly, pulling back.

“We need to hurry”

She nods. They are already late for work. The greatest change in her life now is the support of her husband which she lacked earlier. After Nani passed away, she had to take decisions alone and also face the consequences of it alone, good or bad. But now she has someone who listens to her, feels her pain, advises her and showers so much of love and affection. She is lucky to have him.
888
It’s 11:00 am when Khushi’s car reaches the premises of Gupta Mansion. She is driving her car with her team inside. The house is huge with many guards securing it. Typical Politicians house. One of the guard reaches them to know the purpose of their arrival. Her teammate explains it to him and also shows their invitation letter from Shyam Jha. Their car is then allowed inside the premises. Khushi parks the car and then they head for entering the house. She is about to step inside when a message beeps on her phone. She checks it. The message is from her husband.

‘All the best and SMILE’

Arnav Singh Raizada
Your one and only Husband who thinks he loves you, more than anything, more than everything.

A joyous smile appears on her lips. She types back.

‘That is the longest Signature line I have ever read in my life, Mr. Raizada. Did you start reading Fictions these days?’

Khushi Singh Raizada
Your one and only wife who loves you more than you know.

She sends the message and concentrates on her mission here. She was so much engrossed in messaging that she didn’t even realize when she followed her team till the Living room. Her husband is doing everything to change her mood. Good for her. She is at least feeling better. This house is nothing more than a Client’s location for her. No more, no less. The servants get them seated. Shyam Jha comes down quickly from the stairs and greets them all. Khushi shakes hands with him.
“Will you all like some tea or coffee?” he offers politely.
“No thanks, Mr Jha. We will start working. Tea/Coffee will take later.” She replies.

Shyam understands she is in a hurry to finish the work here and leave. She is really a strong woman. He shows them the huge garden area where the event has to be organized. The team starts to take pictures of the venue and their planning begins. It takes almost 2 hours for the team to chart the idea which Shyam approves of. He insists everyone for tea which Khushi fails to deny. Even if she wants to leave this place asap, doesn’t mean her team is equally interested in it. While the team chit chats informally with Shyam, Khushi’s eyes rolls at the huge pictures hung on the wall. It’s SG with his wife and daughter. For onlookers, they make a perfect family. She sighs sarcastically. Only if they knew he had another woman in his life and a daughter from her.

Her body burns with rage that a man like him, was her father. She had his blood inside her. She tries to hide that grief on her face. Her team finishes. They all leave back to work. She is glad that SG or AJ were not present at home. She was not in a mood to face the two.

As soon as she comes out of the house, she checks her phone. She has not checked it since the time she entered the house. Arnav has replied to her last message.

‘I am more into Non-fiction reading, that was one of my way to kill time in your absence, a year ago

Arnav Singh Raizada
Your one and only husband who is willing to read some romantic fictions with you.’

Khushi chuckled heartily. Aww… He is improving. She replies back, before starting the Car engine.

‘Impressive Mr. Raizada. Scrutinizing your character, I think you will love the Mills and Boon type of fictions.

Khushi Singh Raizada
Your One and Only wife who wants to make your everyday blissful’

She sends the message and drives out of the Mansion with her team. She is not at all nervous that she had to visit SG’s house. All thanks to her husband who kept her smiling and blushing by his messages. She stops the car at the Signal and his message beeps again. She checks it instantly.

‘Are you sure you want to read Mills and Boon Fictions with ME? ? That ME is purposely in CAPS

Arnav Singh Raizada
Your One and Only Husband who wants to make both your days and NIGHTS BLISSFUL ? re-read the words in CAPS because I mean it more.’

Khushi swallows hard. She feels cold and numb. The signal turns green but she is unable to steer the wheel. Rashmi gives her a gentle push on the shoulder.

“Khushi, the signal is green”

Khushi feels flushed. She cannot reply to that message. No way. She accelerates the car forward.
888
The team reaches Jashn Office again and get back to work. Khushi is about to enter her cabin when she suddenly hears her boss Murthy, calling her name. She turns around and is highly baffled to find her husband accompanying Murthy. What is he doing here? She feels little uneasy to meet his eyes, especially after the last message his sent.

“Khushi” Murthy reaches at her with Arnav. “How did the meeting go?” he asks.
“Fine, Sir. Our team will start the work from tomorrow”
Arnav likes the way she confidently replies.
“Okay, Mr Raizada has got a new proposal for us, in fact it’s more for you” Murthy explains.

Arnav is all quiet, he is only observing his wife.

“For me? What. What proposal?” she looks at Arnav.
Arnav smirks.
“Thanks, Mr Murthy, if you don’t mind, I will take it forward from here”
Khushi takes a deep breathe. What is going on here? Murthy shakes hand with Arnav and then leaves. Arnav opens the cabin door of Khushi, and waits for her to get inside. He then follows her. She places her phone on the desk and turns around.

“Arnav” she tries to ask but he shuts her mouth placing his finger on her lips.
“Sshh” he whispers.
Khushi blinks softly.
“Now I am going to talk and you will only listen” he commands.
So typical of him. She likes whenever he takes such a lead.  Arnav removes some papers from his Coat pocket and shows them to her.
“My company has got some serious events lined up for the next 2 -3 years. And we are not interested in changing the Event manager for every such event. You and your team have already impressed us by your last project for us. So, I have decided to make you the Event Head for all of AR’s upcoming events. Which means, you will only have to work for one client.. and that’s me Mrs Raizada”

Khushi’s jaw drops. She doesn’t understand how to process this information. Working forever only for Arnav’s company events sounds great. But, why is he doing this?

“Now you can speak” he releases his earlier command.
“Arnav, I .. I cannot take this up”

Arnav becomes serious.
“Why? What’s wrong?”
“It sounds more like a favor”
“It’s not a favor, Khushi. Look, I know you need space from me in your professional life. I am respecting that. You will still work in a separate office here. It’s just that you will involve yourself in your husband’s work and make it easier for both of us to spend some time with each other. Is that too much to ask for?”

“Exactly, I will have to involve in my husband’s work which will make look odd to the people. They will think I got this offer because of our relationship, not my skills” she explains.

Arnav is angered. He clutches her arms and draws her closer.

“I didn’t recommend your name, your boss Murthy did. I just kept this idea of having the same Event Manager for all of AR’s future events. He is the one who thought you will fit best in it.”

That gives her a bit of relief. Yet she is not convinced.

“But Arnav, aren’t we mixing our personal and professional life? I don’t want my Career to be hampered because of this one decision”

It hurts him.

“Fine. Har kisi ka career uske personal life se zyaada important hota hai. I understand. It’s okay” (Fine. Career is more important that personal lives for almost everyone. I understand. It’s okay)
There is a pain in his voice which she picks up from his tone.
“Arnav, I didn’t mean it”
“It looked so” his voice is again stern and bossy.
“Okay, if it means so much to you, I am ready to accept your offer”

He inhales sharply, as if its mission accomplished for him. Khushi is serious too. She is not going to take back her word. He rubs his thumb over her lip. Khushi holds his wrist, to stop this action.

“I am at work, Mr. Raizada”
“Right now, you are talking to your Husband Mrs. Raizada and he demands you to adhere to his needs”

Khushi swallows hard. She has never seen this look on his face. It’s so raw and carnal. He unexpectedly laughs at her expressions. She is still caught in his hypnotic gaze.

“Okay, we will skip this for now” he then raises her hand and kisses at the backside of her palm. “It’s nice doing Business with you again, Mrs. Raizada”
She flushes. Will he just go? She is unable to bear his teasing, it’s shifting her mind from work to something else. He walks to the door to leave but stops and turns again at her.

“One more thing Mrs. Raizada” he utters. She gazes back in his eyes. “I am waiting for your reply on my last message”

Khushi felt her insides churning, burning, tearing and tickling, all together. His smile turned into an infectious grin. She tries not to overreact or over grin.

“It will be in your Message box, soon” she replies shyly.
“I am waiting” he replies and shuts her cabin door behind him.

Khushi finally breathes normal. What the hell was this? Her bossy husband is now actually going to full time BOSS her. No way. She opens her message box to compose the reply to his message.

‘Yes, I do want to read one of such fictions with you, to practically prepare myself for the next coming events in our lives, the ones you highlighted in CAPS in your Signature line ? BLISSFUL NIGHTS

Khushi Singh Raizada
Your One and Only Wife who is totally blushing right now’

Arnav has still not stepped out the Jashn Office when he reads this message. His body heats up and he finds it hard to think anything beyond his wife. He likes this messaging game that they both have started playing with each other. Sometimes what you cannot say directly, you prefer writing it for the person to know. Their relationship has just started blooming and he will make sure it stays that way, forever. He gets inside his car and replies to her.

“No book in this Universe can give you even a slightest of hint what I want to do to you Mrs. Raizada. But hold that thought and let your husband do the rest.

Arnav Singh Raizada
Your one and only Husband who is grinning like an idiot’



_______________________________________________________________________________



Part 65

“Who is managing the event Shyam?” AJ asks her husband while sipping the evening tea. She has been facing quite few hurdles in running her separate business, considering she has lost the Mastermind like Arnav Singh Raizada. But she has a huge ego to accept her defeat.

Shyam is in a fix, right now. If he tells Anjali that Khushi is handling this Event then she will take the whole house on her head. Anjali becomes suspicious when Shyam doesn’t answer her.

“Come on, stop looking for names. Tell me who is managing Dad’s birthday event, I should know it too” she urges.
Shyam gulps the nervousness and replies.

“Why do you need to know this now? Can’t you wait till the birthday? I will introduce you to the entire team” he tries to tackle the situation.

Fortunately, Anjali doesn’t dig more. She keeps sipping her coffee.

“Dad’s political procession is going great. He will come back home tomorrow” she updates him.
“Cool. Just 2 more days for the birthday, I hope he has no idea about this celebration”
“No, not yet. And let it remain that way. I have strictly informed all of his people not to let him know that they are been invited that evening here”
“You sent the invitations, already?” Shyam asks in surprise.
“Yes, just one remaining though” she smirks.

Shyam is aware what that type of smirk means. She is preparing something huge for the birthday event. But what?

“I hope you are not planning a separate surprise” he tries to know what she intends to do but she ignores him very smartly.
“Don’t worry. We will love it” she continues sipping the coffee giving enough Goosebumps to Shyam, imagining what that surprise from his wife would be?

*******************

As decided, both Khushi and Arnav reach Shantivan first to check on Ayush Raizada. When Khushi gets inside, Arnav is already sitting with his father, in the living room, talking. Khushi feels her entire body burn with love seeing her husband so relaxed and calm. This man is hers. All hers. She recalls the messages conversation which they both were playing since morning. The last one from Arnav had really tickled all her wrong nerves and she couldn’t concentrate on work after that. But she is not going to let that need surface on her face. She wants to make him play hard to get her.

Ayush sees Khushi and welcomes her inside. That’s when Arnav gazes at her. His heart definitely beats harder the moment she sits next to him.

“How are you doing today, Uncle?” she asks
“Absolutely fine. I am so glad to see you both here” Ayush replies.

That’s when Khushi meets Arnav’s eyes. He is admiring her already. She smiles at him and looks back at Ayush. She is having a regular conversation with her father-in-law. Soon Daadi joins them. Arnav leans back on the couch and starts doing something on his mobile phone. She realizes he is messaging her, only after her mobile buzzes. She quickly opens the message.

‘You are all flushed Mrs Raizada. Anything special happened today?

Arnav Singh Raizada
Your one and only husband who is getting distracted by your gorgeous looks’

Khushi coughs and meets his eyes. He gives her a brief intense look and then answers his father something. Khushi gets the best opportunity to reply back. That means this messaging game is still ON? Damn!! It’s so exciting. She never thought a messaging communication can be so sensational. She responds back to his message.

‘Stop being a coy Mr Raizada. You know who is responsible for my flushed look today.

Khushi Singh Raizada
Your one and only wife who wants to know our next plans. Are we staying here, tonight?’

Arnav reads the message and smirks.
“Dad, do you want me and Khushi to stay here, tonight?” he asks Ayush.
“This is your house Arnav, you both are welcome to stay here, anytime”

Arnav glances at Khushi. He knows staying in the presence of Amrita Raizada and her niece Tanvi, won’t be a good idea, if he intends to spend quality time with his wife. Ayush somehow reads the expressions on his face.

“Uh, but if you have other plans, then you both are most welcome to leave” Ayush adds.
“No Uncle, we have no such plans. We can stay here tonight. I am sure Arnav wants the same” Khushi replies giving a teasing look to Arnav.
Daadi and Ayush are both happy. Amrita intrudes their conversation.

“Ayush, Doctors have asked you to rest. Come on, lets get back to the room” she extends her arm for Ayush to hold.
Ayush frowns like a child. He wants to spend more time with his son and daughter-in-law. But Arnav agrees to Amrita for the first time.

“Yes Dad, you should rest. As we are staying here tonight, we will talk to you later, at Dinner”
Ayush agrees and leaves with Amrita. Daadi then turns back to Arnav and Khushi.
“You both must be tired. Get some rest” she suggests.
“I will help you cooking, Daadi” Khushi insists.
“No, who said I am cooking? I hardly do that these days. Tell me what you and Arnav would prefer to eat. I will ask the Chef to make it”
Arnav sighs in relief. That means he will have his wife to himself until Dinner. Khushi quickly gives their eating preferences and leaves with Arnav to their bedroom. This room is little special for her, because it has a glimpse of Arnav’s childhood life. There is so much of her husband that she still doesn’t know. She walks in and places her purse on the little two-seater couch adjacent to the door. She stands by the mirror, looking at herself when Arnav wraps his arms around her waist, keeping his chin on her shoulder blade. Their eyes meet each other’s in the mirror. She raises her finger and strokes his stubble.

“It’s grown sharp” she murmurs.
“I like it that way” he replies.

Khushi smiles. They are still gazing at each other’s expressions in the mirror.
“There is so much about you that I don’t know. Wish I could get inside your head, copy all your past incidents and paste it in my memory.”

Arnav lets out a chuckle.
“Thank goodness it can’t happen”
“Why?” she frowns.
“Because I don’t want you to know all of me. It can be painful” his voice is filled with hurt and pain.

Khushi turns around and cups his face. His arms continue sliding around her waist.

“If that reduces even half of your pain, I won’t mind sharing it” she confesses.

Arnav gives her an edgy look.
“Are you cornering me to get out my secrets?” he asks
“Yes, if that’s what you think” she winks.

Arnav unwraps her palms from his cheeks and steps away.

“There are no secrets anymore. We have already shared a lot about it.” he gets back to the closet and tries looking for a night suit. They had packed a few of their clothes today morning and asked the servant to deliver the bag in this house. Daadi had arranged all those clothes in their closet today afternoon.

While he is busy looking for a night suit, Khushi stands between him and the closet. He sighs. She looks desperate to know more.

“I am intrigued, when did you get to know that SG is my father?”
Arnav gives her a cold look.
“I told you already. It was before our marriage. But why are we even discussing this, now?” his tone getting darker with time.
“Don’t be angry. Don’t I have that right to know?” she argues.

He inhales deeply and kisses her forehead. He then gazes down at her face.

“AJ.. She told me that SG is your father”
“AJ?” Khushi asks in confusion.
“Hmm. When I agreed to get married to you, after Daadi’s continued pleads, I disclosed your details to AJ. She was my Business partner and we really shared a good rapport then. When I showed you her picture, she was mad. That’s when she told me about you being SG’s daughter from other woman”

Khushi gulps nervously.

“And you still agreed to marry me?” she asks

Arnav reads the meaning behind that question. He caresses her face with his thumb.

“Only because you were born outside the wedlock of your parents doesn’t mean you are not human. I respect you the same way like I would have if you were his legitimate child. What’s your fault in all this? You didn’t ask your parents to get into such a relationship” he replies.
She hugs him. It feels so good to know that there is someone who is not judging her blood, neither her birth reasons. Arnav keeps holding her in his embrace.

“At that time, I realized that you were no different than me. Just like my mother died at a very young age, so did yours. Just like I had my father and still suffered loneliness because he married another woman, even you had to bear the solitude of living like an orphan even though your father was alive and almost in the same city. I started showing interest in the marriage until a day before the wedding when AJ revealed another secret about you. That you and Viraj are dating each other. I was shocked. I couldn’t bear that deceit. AJ somehow convinced me that you and Viraj are still having a very much Live relationship even though you are getting married to me. I believed her”

Khushi pulls back from the hug.

“Is that why you looked so mad during the wedding rituals? You were even drunk that day, Arnav” she replies in a low voice.
“Yes. AJ had nicely screwed my mind against you. I didn’t realise her intentions then. She wanted me to drop the wedding on the same day, leaving you alone at the altar which I couldn’t do. I was still madly into you and thought of teaching you a lesson. I behaved indecently all the while we were together after marriage. I wanted to ignore you, hurt you and make you repent on the decision of marrying me”

Arnav’s eyes become moist. The mere thoughts of their painful past, hurt him.

“I was blind. I couldn’t see any of your hardships in making our relation work. Every time you left the house, I thought you were meeting that Viraj”
Khushi’s nose flared.
“Why didn’t you clarify it before? How could you let this misunderstanding ruin our lives so much Arnav?”
“I was too mad for even listening to your side of the story. Besides, AJ was every now and then filling my ears against you. And I trusted her more than you. Suddenly, your father, SG, got to know I was not treating you well. I am sure AJ must have told him that during some conversation between them. So, he met me and asked me to treat you good. I made me furious. It was me who offered him to keep you happy and contended if he agrees to sign off the recommendations on our future Business contracts.”

Arnav lowers his head. He is unable to meet Khushi’s eyes. She knows it was very shameful on his part to propose something like this.

“Then?” she weakly asks. Arnav raises his head and turns around.

“He agreed. And then came the deal for which I had to travel abroad. AJ couldn’t go so I had to leave. You called me after few days informing me about your Nani’s death. I wanted to come but the Business was going under crises there. I thought of leaving the next day itself but then AJ gave me a terrifying update the next morning of your Nani’s death. She told me that Viraj stayed with you that night at your home. He was there with you the entire time, to support you. I lost every little good nerve in me that day. I was so much infuriated that I wanted to kill that man then and there. I purposely cancelled my flight. I was in the impression that you are enjoying his company, his support more than mine, Khushi. That you were still cheating on me.”

Arnav sits at the edge of the bed, looking down. Guilt had overpowered him.

“In few days, I got those pictures of yours and Viraj when he stayed with you. That’s it. I couldn’t control myself. I returned back and till then everything had ended. You had left the country. You had left me and our marriage, both lifeless, proving to me that you never cared about it. Never”

Khushi feels disgusted that he could think so low about her and their marriage. But it was her fault too. She had to meet him, settle the problem instead of eloping. She sits next to him and places her head on his shoulder. Her finger automatically entwins with his. Arnav keeps himself steady and continues his confession.

“I started over drinking. I stopped coming to office, neglected my work, misbehaved with my clients and what not. It was only later that I felt someone is deliberately trying to keep us apart. AJ seemed extremely happy that you left the country. I realised she had her own motives behind this. I then started looking for you again. Fortunately, you contacted me from San Fransisco sending me the Divorce papers and I got the clue where you were. The rest you know, already”

Khushi nods. Yes, many misconceptions that they had about each other were sorted once she returned back. Like the photos which were sent by Viraj’s email id were actually sent by Amrita Raizada and her niece Tanvi. They wanted to separate them so that Tanvi can come close to Arnav. Likewise, AJ’s intentions were to takeover Arnav’s business and also keep Khushi away from reaching her father. Though she was successful in doing the most of it, she couldn’t stop Khushi from returning back in Arnav’s life and also meeting SG and getting to know that he is her father. Though it all took time, still every piece of this mystery was solved as days passed. She is happy that now whatever feelings she is has for Arnav is nothing but Pure love. She has no remorse of what their past was, she has erased those memories from her heart. She cuddles into him, trying to feel his warmth. Arnav realizes it and holds her waist, placing her on his lap. She wraps her arms around his neck and rests her head on his shoulder, her eyes shut. She wants to draw as much as love and affection from her husband which both of them missed terribly so far.

“Make love to me, Arnav” she whispers in his ears.

_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 66

“Make love to me, Arnav” Khushi whispers in his ears.

The atmosphere suddenly charges between the two. Her fingers move in his hair, pulling his face closer. He strokes his finger on her cheek, lovingly.

“Is that what you want?” he confirms again. His voice soft and seductive.
She nods. Their eyes never leave each other’s.
“Here??” he pauses “Now?” he adds.
“Yes” she reassures.

He smirks.
“No” he denies, shocking her immediately.
“What?” her jaw drops.
“You are emotional, and I don’t want our best moment to be only because we are hurt. It has to be a celebration, Khushi, not a way of soothing each other’s pain”

She gulps nervously.

“I can’t believe this. All this time, you wanted me to say a Yes for our marriage consummation. In fact, you even asked an Heir from me. And now, when I am actually willing to let it happen, you are withdrawing?” she grumbles trying to shift from his lap but Arnav didn’t let her slip out of his hold.

He gently kissed her cheek, then the next and met her eyes.

“I am as eager as you are, trust me on that. But I want to make it special, for you. For us” he explains.

Khushi pouts but she agrees to him. That’s when suddenly she remembers something.

“Wait, you asked an Heir from me, when I returned back from San Francisco. Why was that? I don’t see you someone who is very fond of having kids”
Arnav sighs. He doesn’t seem happy to confess the theory behind this. But tonight, has been a night of confessions from his side. So, he will let her know everything she wants to know.

“A baby would have bonded us together, forever. I thought, after having my child in your womb, I would always keep you by my side” he replies.
Khushi understands slowly what he means and she is not happy.
“All that is old times, Khushi. You were working hard for a Divorce. You had contacted a lawyer, Sheetal. I was afraid to lose you. Asking a Heir from you, was one of my way to tackle this problem. That’s all” he adds apologetically.

Khushi clenches her jaw and hits his chest in anger.

“You wanted to use our child in between all this? That’s so cruel. I thought you genuinely wanted a baby”
“I do” he pulls her closer.

She looks elsewhere. She is still angry.

“I am sorry, baby. You know how I was then. So please don’t be frustrated.”
Khushi looks at him again. He is genuinely saying that, she knows.
“I want to have babies with you and apart from being a good husband, I want to be a good father too”

His words make her chuckle. She leans her head on his shoulder and kisses his nape.

“Babies? How many?” she bites her lip to hold on that curiosity within her.
“We can decide that depending on your health.” He replies like a good husband. Khushi is awed at his response. “But I am in no hurry. I want you all for myself for some years. I can’t share you so soon” he nuzzles his nose in her hair. She giggles hard pulling him closer.

The door knocks. Arnav groans in frustration. He doesn’t like to be intruded especially when he is so cozy with his wife. Khushi pulls back and reaches the door to open it. Tanvi is standing with a fake smile on her face. Even though she has seen Khushi, she is still trying to peep inside, as if to take a sneak peak of Arnav. Khushi feels pity on her. Tanvi seems very much smitten by his charms. Khushi clears her throat to get Tanvi’s attention.

“Yes Tanvi?”
Tanvi gets alert and looks at Khushi.

“Daadi has called everyone for dinner” she says.
Arnav comes from behind Khushi and slides his arm around her waist.

“We are coming” he replies.
Tanvi sees the lipstick mark on Arnav’s cheek and neck. She fumes in anger. What were they doing? She gulps nervously and leaves the place.
“What happened to her?” he asks Khushi while coming out of the door.
“Poor Tanvi” Khushi pouts.
“Excuse me? You don’t know what Tanvi is.” He warns.

They start walking down to the dining area.

“Whatever she is, I feel bad for her. She wanted to marry you but you never let her dream come true” she laughs teasing him.
Arnav smirks. He knows Khushi is enjoying the tease.
“If you are feeling so bad for her, then fine. I will marry her. I am sure you won’t mind seeing Tanvi in our house. You both can stay together as sisters. What say?”

Khushi gently hits his arm but she is fuming.

“How dare you say that? I will tear her apart if she even thinks of coming close to you. Arnav Singh Raizada belongs only to Khushi Singh Raizada. Understood?”
Arnav smiles at her possessiveness.
“Yes Ma’am” he quickly kisses her forehead partition and then entwins his fingers with hers.

The dinner is served. Amrita, Tanvi are sitting opposite to Arnav and Khushi. Ayush is sitting next to Amrita whereas Daadi is beside Khushi. Tanvi keeps glaring at Khushi as she sees how romantically Khushi wipes the kheer from Arnav’s lips. They seem to be so much in love. But when did that happen? What all she and Amrita Aunty have done so far to keep this woman away from Arnav. But everything went in vain. Can she really let Arnav go so easily from her life? Will she give up?

They finish the dinner and are about to disperse back in their respective rooms when AJ enters the house. She smiles at everyone, especially at Arnav.
“AJ?” Arnav gets serious.
“Hi ASR. I hope I didn’t disturb you all. Actually, I had no time to come during the day time. You know how busy work is getting these days?” she purposely stresses on the work to make him realize that they have now parted their ways in Business.

Tanvi and Amrita quickly welcomes her and gets her seated on the Couch. Ayush stands rooted with Daadi whereas Khushi feels totally suffocated. Why is she here? Does she want to create more troubles in their lives? Or has she got to know who is organizing the event of SG’s birthday?

Tanvi gladly asks her the reason for coming here.

“I wanted to invite you all for Dad’s birthday party. It’s day after tomorrow. You all must come”

She purposely looks at Arnav and Khushi who seems totally disinterested in the invitation.
“We will come AJ. Is your father back from his processions?” Tanvi asks.
“Yes” she replies looking again at Khushi who feels awkward. She does not want to face these people, anyone that reminds her of her father.  AJ excuses from the rest and comes to Arnav and Khushi.

“Arnav, I hope you make it there with your wife. Whatever differences we had professionally, I don’t think it should affect us personally. And after all, SG is the same man who helped us getting so good contracts. How can you forget those wonderful favors you had from him in return to his keep his illegitimate daughter happy?” she mocks.
Arnav fists his fingers and is about to react but Khushi clutches his wrist tight. AJ scans their hand hold and then observes Khushi.

“You are caging a beast. Unleash him and see how much he can destroy the world, including you” AJ warns her.
Now Khushi opens her mouth.
“I know exactly what my husband is. Don’t provoke us AJ, because this time you will have to face the wrath of both of us, not just him” Khushi replies.

Arnav is proud of his wife. AJ glares at both of them.

“Well, we will see how long you both stand for each other, like this.”

AJ turns again and hugs Tanvi. She then leaves the house. Amrita and Tanvi start gossiping about how they have to attend this birthday event as AJ herself had come to invite them personally. Arnav and Khushi heads back to their room.

“She was purposely here. She just can’t stand us together” Arnav angrily mutters.

Khushi nods.
“I have decided. I have supervised my team everything. They can handle the event on their own, without me”
“You mean, you are not going to be present there on his birthday?”
Khushi clearly nods a No.
“After coming such a long way Khushi, I don’t think you should escape on the main event. You must attend it. You told me that SG means nothing to you and this is yet another event for you. Then why are you backing off at the last moment, like this?” he asks.
Khushi swallows hard.
“You think I will do good?” she murmurs.

Arnav sits next to her on the bed and looks at her.
“Of course, you will be good. My wife is a very strong woman. If she can fight a demon like me, she can fight anyone.”

His little mockery helps her to regain a smile on face.
“Will you come there?” she asks
“Where my wife is, I will definitely come”

She chuckles at lies on the bed, stretching her arms for him to cuddle her. He smiles sheepishly and shuts the lamps off, climbing back on bed, straight in her arms. It feels warm. Khushi nuzzles her nose on his neck and closes her eyes for sleep. Arnav keeps patting her. He is very sure AJ is planning something huge on Shashi’s birthday. What can that be? She will be revenging everything that she lost on her father’s birthday. Though he doesn’t want to share this with Khushi and scare her more, he will still have to be very sharp and catch AJ before she acts unwisely.

“Don’t think so hard baby. I will be fine” Khushi whispers.
She knows what he is thinking. Arnav smiles and kisses her hair. He raises her chin and gazes at her lips. They kiss. She blushes hard after pulling back and hugs him tight. His face softens while she struggles not to meet his eyes. Did she just kiss him? Holy crap. She couldn’t handle a simple moment between them and there she was making huge statements of asking him to make love to her. No wonder he denied. She controls her blush so that he doesn’t feel it and covers them with the duvet. All she needs tonight is the warmth of her husband and sometimes its good to just sleep cuddling each other. But she is going to dream of him, every night from now.
888
Arushi is back from her friend’s house, where she had been for group studies. The family tell her a little about Ayush’s condition which he suffered 2 days ago. She is upset that none of the family members told her about this. But then she is also happy that her father and ASR reconciled. She was waiting for this to happen. She hugs Arnav when he and Khushi are down for breakfast.

“ASR, does that mean you will be staying with us now?” she asks.
“Not full time but yes you can expect me and Khushi to come here frequently” he replies.

Arushi jumps with joy whereas Amrita frowns and leaves the room. Everyone gets seated for breakfast. After a while Arnav drives Khushi, in his car, to her office.

“We aren’t going to stay full time at your father’s house?” she curiously asks.
Arnav glances at her and nods a clear No.
“I don’t want to intrude their privacy. Besides, I don’t feel like staying under the same roof where Amrita and Tanvi are there. We have already faced enough hurdles in our married life, I don’t want to extend them by staying amidst our enemies”

She understands what he means.

“But that house has your mother’s memories, you have spent your childhood there” she argues.
“Why do you want to defy me, Khushi? I am telling you I don’t want to stay there permanently”

Khushi holds her ears.

“Okay, relax. I won’t ask that again. I just thought about it. That’s all” she weakly responds.

Arnav parks the vehicle at her office premises. She is about to get down when he stops her. He holds her hand and pulls her closer. She inhales deep as he places his lips on hers. He then pulls back and strokes her cheeks.

“Sorry for raising my voice like that”
Khushi smiles at him and nuzzles her nose with his.
“Hum samajhte hai (I understand)”
“I will pick you up by 05:00 and tonight we are not going there. We will stay at our place. You fine with that?”

She feels her cheeks turning red. She gently nods and gets down the car waving a Bye to him. Arnav drives out from there, back to his office.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 67

It’s afternoon, Khushi has just finished a meeting with her team detailing how they will handle the event of SG’s birthday from start to end. All the decorations, music, lighting, catering, everything is taken care of. Khushi is nervous but she knows that her husband, her Arnav, will be there to support her. She comes back to her cabin and checks if there is any message from her husband. There is nothing from him. She sighs in disappointment. He must be busy. Suddenly, she remembers what he had told while dropping her to office. Tonight, they will be staying at their home and not Raizada house. There is a curiosity in her mind to know what he has planned for tonight. She blushes at her own thoughts and gets back to work. Within few minutes her phone beeps. It’s message from Arnav.

‘Don’t stress yourself much at work today, we have a long night. Hope you remember.

Arnav Singh Raizada
Your One and only Husband who is longing to pick you up from work at 05:00pm’

Khushi feels her cheeks heating up. She types back a response.

‘Such things are never to be forgotten. I remember what’s up for me tonight. I am not stressing at work today. Don’t worry.

Khushi Singh Raizada
Your One and only wife who is getting nervous with every second closing to 05:00pm’

She hits the send button and waits anxiously for his reply. She is scared because she is confused. She has no one with whom she can share her feelings regarding her marriage consummation. She has always adored the emotions of a woman related to her first night with husband but now that the same is on her head, she wants to hide somewhere. Her stomach flips as another message pops on her screen, from Arnav.

‘We can postpone this if you are not ready.

Arnav Singh Raizada
Your One and Only Husband who understands your inner turmoil’

She chuckles. How sweet of him to even say that. She immediately replies.

‘You really want to postpone this?

Khushi Singh Raizada
Your one and only wife who is biting her nails to know your reply’

In few seconds she gets the response.

‘NOOOOOO!! I DON’T WANT TO POSTPONE IT. And stop biting your nails Mrs. Raizada. Bad habit!!

Arnav Singh Raizada
Your One and only husband who wants to ensure your nails are harmless’

Dammit!! This is going way too far now. She waits for few minutes to contain her raging hormones and then types.

‘You are diverting my attention from work Mr. Raizada. That will delay me from leaving my office.

Khushi Singh Raizada
Your One and Only Wife who requests you to let her work’

She hits the send button and continues working. In a minute she gets a response from him.

‘I will wait for you outside your office at 05:00. Even a minute delay and I won’t mind stepping inside and carrying you all the way down. DON’T BE LATE.

Arnav Singh Raizada
Your One and Only Husband who accepts your request and is letting you work.’

She wants to laugh at that. She never knew Arnav Singh Raizada is so weak in showing patience. But he is not fully wrong. The wait is long enough already, for both of them.
888
It’s sharp 05:00 and Arnav parks his car at her office premises. He waits outside checking his watch. It’s almost 05:01 now, he is about to get inside when he sees her coming out, hurrying. He smirks. She rushes to him.
“Sorry, my team had few last-minute questions. They stopped me” she says all this in one breath. She is still breathing hard. He can tell it very easily she almost came out running. He holds her arm to calm her down.

“You take my words very seriously Mrs. Raizada, that’s one of the things I like about you” he utters.

She smiles weakly agreeing to his statement.
“Do you think I have a choice? I don’t want my husband to create a scene at my workplace. I had to rush and give in to his demands.”
“Let’s get you home, baby” he smirks at her reply and slides his arm around her waist, leading her back to the car.

They reach home after 30 minutes of drive.

“What should I wear tomorrow for the Event?” she weakly asks, holding his hand as they step inside the house.
He leans down and kisses her forehead.
“That’s the last thing you should worry about tonight. Coffee?”

She smiles and nods. He leaves her hand.

“Five minutes, I will make one for you”
“You are making Coffee? What happened to Hari Prakash?
“I gave him a day off”

She swallows again. Is this day off given because of their plans for tonight? Now that’s frightening. He reads her expressions and holds his sarcasm.
“Khushi, ease down. We are not going on a war tonight”

She feels utterly shy at his choice of words and hits his chest gently.

“Where is my Coffee?”
She just wants him to go away for few minutes, so that she can compose herself, prepare herself.
“Yes Ma’am. It’s on its way”

He leaves for the kitchen and she sit on the couch, like a guest in her own house, checking messages on her mobile. Two minutes pass and she is already missing him. She heads to the kitchen and sees her husband pouring the milk in the mugs. He looks delicious in that White shirt whose sleeves are folded till his elbow. His waist coat is lying on the small table at the corner of the kitchen along with his suit. She gets inside and stands behind him. He has no clue she is here. She tries to get the Sugar bottle from the side and in the process, she purposely touches his un-sleeved arm. He feels a spark. When he looks at her, she is biting her own lip, her eyes away from his and she is totally pretending to be unaware of what she just did. His smile gets darker.

“Let me help” she requests and puts some sugar in her mug. She knows he likes Black coffee without Sugar so she restricts herself from putting Sugar in his Mug.

Arnav starts stirring the coffee. She once again leans on him, from the side, in the pretext of keeping the Sugar bottle back in its place. Her upper body already touching Arnav, giving him goose bumps. He stops stirring the coffee and gazes at her. She is holding her smile.

“I know what you are doing” his voice is getting hoarse.
“Am I doing something to you?” she questions back pretending to be innocent.

His eyes melt and also his self-control. He grabs her arm and pulls her roughly to him. Shit. Did she go too far in teasing him? He fists some of her hair and looks in her eyes.

“Let’s chuck the Coffee”

She gulps. Yes, who cares for the coffee now? The moment she nods in agreement, he picks her in his arm and carries her to their bedroom. She thinks he will put her down in the bedroom, but nope. He deposits her straight on the bed. He rubs his nose against hers.

“Are you tired?” he whispers.

Khushi wraps her arm around his neck, drawing him close.

“Never for you Mr. Raizada”
He kisses the corner of her mouth. Time flies as desire blooms, ending this night to be the most memorable for both of them.
888
Arnav is snoring peacefully beside Khushi. It’s 06:00 am when she opens her eyes and realizes its morning. Arnav has draped his arm loosely over her waist and they are still covered with the heavy Duvet, protecting them from the extreme cold weather outside. Arnav looks more beautiful when he is asleep. She slowly caresses his hair. She had never visualized her life with Arnav will be so stunning and peaceful. Last night they had crossed one more barrier of their relationship. Life has suddenly become so happening and attractive for her. Once the same man had shown her variations in pain and today he is the one who is unleashing every gift of happiness in her life. She looks at the sky which is visible from the French doors. Nani must be happy today, seeing them together. Arnav was her Nani’s choice after all. So much has happened in the last few months. She had lost the hope of living as his wife. But she is glad that Arnav never gave up on her. Though he inflicted pain and sorrow in her life in the initial days of their marriage, he has covered it all up by his immense love and support, now.

Arnav tosses in sleep and pulls her closer. She can feel every breath he takes. She wants to extend this quality time with her husband but it seems impossible for now. Today is SG’s Birthday event, the most delicate situation for her where she can no clue how she will present herself in the party? What has AJ prepared to humiliate her? She checks the time again. It’s 06:15 now. She must wake up and get going. She will have to reach Gupta Mansion by 09:00.

Khushi slowly moves Arnav’s arm away from her body and gets in the shower. Even when she comes out, he is peacefully sleeping. She dresses and quickly makes her way down, in the kitchen. Hari Prakash is still not home. God knows till when Arnav has denied him from coming to work. She chuckles at her own thoughts and starts making the breakfast. She looks at the Coffee Mugs and blushes hard. Their hormones were so disturbing last evening that they even ditched their Coffee time. She contains her thoughts and starts cooking.

She is beating eggs for the Omelets. The Pancakes are ready and Coffee is brewing.

“Good Morning” he says quietly reaching the Kitchen slab.

She jerks at his sudden intrusion and turns around. It is so embarrassing to face him again, after last night.

“Morning” she whispers and then clears her throat. She does not want to make it obvious for him that she is still lost in the last night acts.
“I love that sound” he lingers his finger on her neck at her throat. She feels heated.
“Arnav” her voice is hardly audible now.
He grins at her and stops disturbing his wife.
“Tum theek ho?” (You alright?) he asks in a low husky tone. He knows how sensitive she gets when she hears that voice of his. She controls her breath and continues beating the eggs.
 “I have to hurry up for the Event.”
He stills. Today is going to be very torturous without her.
“I will drop you”
“No. I will manage. Besides, I know you have many situations to handle at your office. I will be fine, Arnav. Really”

He nods and starts assisting her in the breakfast. Suddenly he remembers something and makes her turn to see him.
“What?” she asks in confusion.
“Thanks for making our relationship complete” he whispers.
She feels her cheeks turning red again. She cups his face.
“Relationship is a process Arnav and I am glad you came in my life. After Nani, its you who have given me so many other relations to dote upon. A father-in-law, Sister-in-law, Daadi. So, don’t thank me, for anything or else I will start my Thank you speech then.”

He relaxes and pecks her nose.

“What time will you come there, at the event?”
“Evening. Do you want me early?”
“No, I just asked. I have my team so you don’t have to worry”
“I am worried because AJ is not going to be quiet. She doesn’t know you are managing that event. She will get to know it today and I am very sure she has something lined up for you” Arnav shares his concern.

Khushi nods in agreement.

“I have stopped reacting to such things Arnav. We can’t change people so its better we change our own ways of dealing it. Your wife is not weak now. She is stronger than before. I will handle it.”

Arnav feels proud of her. He pulls her close and gives her a warm hug. She wraps her arms around him and stays in his embrace for little longer. Once this event ends, she can concentrate more on her husband and their newly found love making desires.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 68

Anjali throws the vase at her bedroom door.

“You hide this from me, Shyam? Why?” she screams.

Shyam has just revealed to his wife that the entire event of SG’s birthday has been organized through Jashn Event Management Company, under the leadership of Khushi. He thought it would be better to let Anjali know this before she sees Khushi with her team today, looking after the arrangements.

“Rani Saheba I..”
“Don’t, don’t try to butter me Shyam. How could you hide such an important matter from me?”
“Because you would never have allowed her to arrange this event then”
“So, what?” she angrily asks. “There are so many other good and experienced people who would have done it for us. Why her?” she groans.
“Because she is his daughter” he replies with the same rage.

Anjali gets wild. She comes forward and fists her husband’s shirt.

“You said it once, never say it again”

Her phone buzzes. She leaves Shyam’s shirt and answers the call. She hears the update and then disconnects the phone, looking at Shyam.

“Anyways, in all this you at least did one thing good. Now that she is the event manager today, she will come here to make fun of own herself” she laughs heartily.
Shyam gets worried.
“What do you mean? Have you planned something worst for her?” he asks.
“Yes, I have and this time she is not going to be saved. Not even by Arnav Singh Raizada”
“Anjali, spare all this stunt from you at least today. It’s your father’s birthday. Don’t mess it with your hatred for Khushi”
“I don’t need your advice” saying that she leaves the room.

Shyam sighs in disappointment. He thought he can do something to patch things between his wife and Khushi but its looks impossible and the very thought of Anjali already planned something for this event is making him worry.

***************

Khushi steps her foot inside Gupta Mansion. Her heart pounds seeing Shashi Gupta, standing before her and the team. He has a broad smile on his lips, seeing Khushi there. She tries to act normal. Her team starts wishing him for his birthday and then quickly leave to check their preparations. Khushi is the last one. Should she wish him? If she doesn’t take him as a father, he is at least her client. She is organizing his event. She takes a deep breath and extends her arm towards him.

“Happy Birthday SG”

Shashi’s eyes become moist with tears. He completes the hand shake. She can feel his hand shivering with nervousness and may be even guilt. She withdraws her hand.

“I should get back to work. Excuse me”

When she tries to leave, she hears his voice.

“You are managing my birthday event?”
Khushi stops and turns around.
“It’s my job. I am not doing any personal favors”
“It’s the best gift I have received so far” he continues.

Khushi is slightly raged. Gift? Is he expecting she will happily gift him?

“It’s not a gift Mr. Shashi Gupta. I repeat, it’s my job. And you are nothing to me than my Client. Please don’t expect anything more”

Her words prick his heart. One of her team member calls Khushi and she leaves to do her job. Shashi feels disheartened but he knows that Khushi is never going to forgive him. Khushi’s mood is off. She tries hard to focus but nothing works. How she wants the evening to come and Arnav to be beside her. She is missing him already, and this distance between them, especially after last night is killing her. Even his thoughts are enough to bring a smile on her face but she is gifted with a message from him too, at the same time. Her phone buzzes and she check the message from her husband.

‘I loved every single minute with you, last night.

Arnav Singh Raizada
Your One and Only husband who is lost in the flashes of last night with you.’

Khushi swallows hard and scans around. She just hopes no one watches that blush on her face and then she types him back.

‘You make one hell of a husband sweetheart

Khushi Singh Raizada
Your One and Only Wife who is equally enjoying the aftereffects of last night.’

She keeps the phone back in her pocket and is about to get back to work when she hears someone clapping, behind her. She turns around. AJ stops clapping. Khushi maintains the same cold expressions on her face.

“Wow. Amazing. Even after my warnings you managed to get into this house” AJ comments.
“Why don’t you ask this to your husband? He is the one who offered this event management to Jashn”
“Right, he offered it to your company”
“And they assigned me. I cannot control that AJ” Khushi retaliates.

Anjali is surprised at her stern behavior.

“You now suit ASR’s wife. Typical performance you both give. So, how is it going between you two? Started making babies?” AJ taunts.
Khushi feels her questions are quite insensible. She lets out a chuckle.

“Yes, we started loving each other and babies will come in some months. We will invite you, don’t worry”
Anjali chuckles with sarcasm.
“Great sense of humor you have. I don’t share any connection with your babies so don’t take that effort in inviting me”
“Oh really? That’s strange AJ. Because few months ago you were teaching Arnav to have a baby from me, so that that baby will always keep me bonded in the marriage and Arnav will get the opportunity to shower hatred upon me, which in turn will keep you entertained and contended. Is that false?”

AJ is stunned how Khushi suddenly exposes her. Her smile dips.

“You got your wings now. Raizada Wings I guess. You talk too much and unnecessary” she adds.

Khushi smiles and this is the first satisfactory smile she ever had while conversing with AJ till date.
“I had wings already, but Arnav and his love taught me to fly. He gave me this hope that I can survive even when people like you exists to kill my spirits. Anyways AJ, I really don’t have time to discuss this any further. Got to work here. So please excuse me”

Khushi puts her glares and walks past AJ who fumes at the guts of Khushi.

“I exactly know how to cut your wings, Khushi and it will happen tonight. So, fly as high as you want because this is your last flight” she chuckles murmuring this to herself and makes a quick call. “I want the media to capture today’s event” she commands to someone over the call and then hangs up.

***************

It’s evening. Guests have started coming. Khushi needs to change her attire as per the Event. She has planned to wear a Saree and that too a red one. She changes quickly in one of the guest rooms and gets engrossed in managing the event. Her team assures her that they are handling it all and she need not worry. That she can even go and enjoy the party with her husband who will soon be around with the other guests.

Khushi checks her phone. Guests have started coming. It’s 07:00pm. Though she is tired of today’s hectic day, she is still preparing herself to meet her husband and his family in this party. She is checking her phone to see if Arnav has dropped any message when she hears his voice from behind her.

“Very Pleasing, Mrs. Raizada” he utters.

She turns around. Arnav is in a black tuxedo and looking absolutely charming. There is a contentment on his face, probably the after effects of last night. She bites her lip as his eyes gazes her from top to bottom. He comes forward and kisses her forehead.

“You are looking really lovely tonight” he whispers in her ears. She blushes hard and meets his eyes.
“So, are you” she murmurs.
He leans over her face to kiss her but she stops him by placing her palms over his chest.
“Arnav, what are you doing?”
“Kissing my wife” his voice is hoarse yet husky.
“I. I know, but we are not at home. Look around. We are already being watched”

He sighs in disappointment and moves back. She clasps his hand. Arnav looks at the guests who were eyeing at their close proximity and sighs.

“Why can’t people mind their own business?”
Khushi chuckles.
“Who doesn’t want a free show?” she winks at him gaining a wide smirk in return.
“You met SG?” he asks.

Khushi’s smile fades away.

“Yes. I wished him and before he could start getting sentimental I walked away” her voice is shaken.
“Never mind, lets enjoy the party. I want you to meet some of my known people”

Arnav takes Khushi along and introduces him to few other couples.

“Nice meeting you Khushi, we have always asked ASR why he keeps hiding his wife and doesn’t get her out for socializing. I am glad this time he introduced us to you” one of the woman from the group comments.

Arnav has securely taken her in his arms. They looked so much in love. Arnav leads her away from the group. Aman Mathur makes his way to them. He is holding a Bouquet and an envelope.
“Boss, I have got the stuff” Aman states gesturing the envelope.
Arnav nods and looks at Khushi.
“Come, lets wish SG again and give him this”
Khushi hesitates.
“You go. I will wait”
“No, you are coming along. This cannot be done without you”

He forcefully takes her to SG who is talking to another politician. Once SG sees this couple, he excuses and comes forward. Aman hands the envelope and Bouquet to Arnav and leaves. Arnav extends the bouquet to Shashi wishing him on his birthday. Shashi gets emotional and keeps the bouquet aside.

“Thanks for coming here tonight” Shashi replies.

Khushi is not looking at him but she has clutched her husband’s arms tight. Arnav then gives the Envelope to him.

“What is this?” SG asks. Even Khushi is surprised what are the contents of the envelope.
“Check it yourself” Arnav replies.
Shashi opens the envelope and finds a Blank cheque signed by Arnav Singh Raizada.  He gets confused.

“What is this, ASR?”
“Fill in the amount which you have favored me all these months. I don’t want the weight of that favor to ruin my present and future. I love Khushi and my love is enough to keep her happy forever.”

Shashi is proud of his son-in-law. Khushi’s eyes fill with tears. She never expected Arnav to do this. It is a good way of ending his chapter with SG. She wouldn’t have asked for more.

“Whatever favors I did on you was my right, Arnav. Khushi accepts me or not, she will be my daughter and you will be my Son-in-law. But if taking this cheque from you is going to give you both contentment and happiness, I will keep it with me forever.” He replies.

Arnav appreciates the little maturity SG shows at this moment. The very next moment there is an announcement from Anjali, over the mike. Everyone stops talking and looks at her. All lights focus on her. She is standing at the center of the room, with a mike in hand.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, I need your attention here”

Khushi looks at Arnav and she already gets negative vibes by AJ’s sudden intrusion like this. Arnav pats her gently asking her not to worry. Even SG is shocked.

“I am glad everyone has made it to my father’s birthday. It is a very special moment for all of us. Dad, please join me over the stage” she requests.
SG nods and heads to the stage, standing next to her. She hugs her father and then addresses back to the people.

“He has always been a great father. I have learnt a lot from him. Today, on this special occasion I want to gift him something beyond his imagination”

She claps twice looking at her men who immediately push a huge photo frame, which is draped with a curtain, hiding the photo in the frame.

“Dad, please unfold this gift and let everyone see whom I am gifting you tonight”

Shashi feels nervous. He still nods and then unwraps the frame and the photo behind it is revealed to the crowd. Khushi is shocked to see her solo picture. The crowd is silent and every pair of eyes is gawking at Khushi who has clutched her husband’s arms as tight as possible. What is all this? Arnav grits his teeth looking at AJ who is giving him a winning smirk. Even SG is startled. Shyam sighs in disappointment. So, this is what his wife planned? To reveal Khushi’s identity to everyone? 

“This woman in the photo might be Khushi Singh Raizada for most of them, but she has one more famous identity beyond that. Her Maternal name is Khushi Shashi Gupta, she is SG’s daughter, from another woman”

The crowd start gossiping almost immediately while AJ gives a winning smile to Khushi and Arnav whose eyes are throwing daggers at her for this stupidity. In the attempt to humiliate Khushi, AJ has not even spared the dignity of her father.


_______________________________________________________________________________

Part 69

“Daughter? Khushi Singh Raizada is SG’s daughter?”

Everyone in the party start gossiping about it. Khushi swallows the disappointment created by Anjali. How can she defame her own father before such a huge crowd, that too on his birthday? Anjali turns to Shashi.

“Sorry Dad, but I have seen the innumerous attempts you are making to accept Khushi as your daughter. It was always me who warned you never to announce this to the world, but I couldn’t stop myself from gifting this right to you, today on this special day. Please accept my gift and my apologies, both”

Shashi feels dissatisfied with AJ’s attempts in getting this matter out in open. He knows she has no motives to unite him with Khushi. She is doing all this only for revenge and her own satisfaction.

“I know why you did this Anjali. It is not for my happiness, it is again because of your selfish motives. You wanted to humiliate Khushi before everyone and you did it at the cost of your father’s humiliation. I can’t believe I am witnessing this cruel side of you. I thought you were always insecure of your step sister, but today you revealed that you always wanted to hurt her. And you are successful. I am ashamed of you. Very much ashamed.” Tears flow from Shashi’s eyes.

Khushi clutches her husband’s arm.

“Take me out of here. Please” she whispers. The media is constantly clicking pictures of her and Arnav. She wants all of this to stop. Suddenly, Shashi Gupta addresses the crowd, stopping the gossips.

“Anjali is right. Khushi is my daughter. She has my blood. I loved her mother but I could never marry her. This society might call this relationship illegitimate but it is not Khushi’s fault. It is my mistake that I couldn’t give my relationships a proper name, a bondage. I won’t give excuses to anyone. If anyone is responsible for this fault, it is me. Please don’t blame Khushi. She didn’t even know that I am her father until few weeks before. Please don’t blame her. Please”
He joins his palms towards the guests and the media who are getting every bit of gossip and news here. Anjali fumes when her father clarifies all this before the media. She wanted to make fun of Khushi before the whole world and she did it successfully. Whatever clarifications her father keeps giving, she doesn’t care.

“Arnav, please take me away from here” Khushi murmurs again, wiping tears from her own eyes.

Arnav presses her hand in assurance.

“Just one moment baby. I will be back”

He leaves her and rushes to the center stage where all this drama is On. He snatches the Mike from AJ and comes ahead. Anjali is confused what he wants to address to the crowd? She waits.

“Sorry Everyone, I know this is not the right time to extend this matter. But if someone is going to humiliate my wife, I cannot stay quiet” Arnav says aloud.

Khushi is bewildered. What is he doing?

“I was the first person from the outsider to know that Khushi is SG’s daughter. I hide this fact from my wife for very long and when she got to know this, she distanced from me. It took her a lot of time and efforts from my end to win her trust back. And this is the same time period when I dug a bit more into the Gupta’s life”

There is silence spread across the venue. AJ gets nervous. What other information does Arnav have to share? Arnav looks at Shashi Gupta and then removes some paper from his pockets.

“These papers here have the proof of what I am going to confess today”

Shashi is jumbled like others.

“What are these papers, Arnav?” Shashi asks curiously.

Even Khushi is staring at her husband in shock. What else did he find out and why didn’t he tell her before?

“These papers state that Anjali is not your daughter”

The crowd once again start gossiping and the media clicks few more images of this scene.

“What nonsense is this?” AJ comes ahead and tries to snatch the papers. Arnav allows her to read them while he continues to address the crowd and Shashi Gupta.

“Your wife suffered a miscarriage in her last month of pregnancy. You were not in town, but in some other city for your political meeting. The Doctors had to operate your wife and she gave birth to a dead child. They even confirmed that she can never be pregnant again after that accident. So, in order to save her marriage, she adopted a baby girl who was born exactly on the same day to a woman who wanted to leave the child because she was unmarried. That woman, means AJ’s legal mother handed one-day old Anjali to your wife and left forever. These are the papers of the hospital where all of this happened.”

There was a total chaos in the party. Anjali got very mad. All this seemed a lie to her but the papers were real. This is why she never resembled her mother or her father ever. She always felt she is different from her parents. Shashi was highly shocked at the revelations. Khushi felt a tug in her heart to know this truth.

Arnav glances at Anjali again.

“All these years you kept taunting Khushi for being an illegitimate Child but the truth is that you too are one of them. The man whom you call your father, whom you always warned to stay away from Khushi, whom you didn’t care to humiliate today before the whole crowd, is not your blood father. How does it feel AJ? Now do you understand what the prick of being an illegitimate child is? It is very easy to call someone by that term but it hurts to live with that fact which from now even you will for the rest of your life.” Arnav adds.

Anjali kneels down. Her eyes start tearing. Shyam immediately comes for her help and gathers her in his arms. She starts crying bitterly. The guards start securing the area, announcing the party to be officially over. The media are forced to leave the premises. But they already have a lot of news which will pop up almost instantly in all channels. SG has been ruling his political party from a long time. It would be very interesting to see if he continues being in that place or someone else will overrule him.

Only the Raizada’s and Gupta’s are now present in the house. Khushi feels pity for Anjali. Though that woman got taste of her own medicine, Khushi still feels for her. May be that’s the difference between her and Anjali. She cannot be selfish and emotionless like her. Arnav returns back to his wife and there is a pride in his expressions.

“You want me to take home? Now I can” he egoistically replies.
“You should not have announced it so openly before the media. This is such a sensitive matter Arnav”
Khushi explains.
“She started it. She hurt you and I cannot stand anyone who behaves so rudely with my wife. And she and SG deserved to know this, Khushi. It is such a truth which will serve them both for all the mess they have kept creating in your life.”

Arnav’s response is genuine but Khushi being a selfless soul still feels he didn’t do good.

“You have exposed them so bitterly that it will take ages for them to recover from this truth” she murmurs.
“I don’t care”

He kisses her forehead and drags her out. Khushi gives one last look to SG and AJ and then leaves with her husband.

***************

That night Khushi is totally depressed. Though they have returned back from the party, she has not changed her saree. She is standing at the poolside, looking at the calm water. Arnav is in the bedroom talking to Aman Mathur.

“Yes, I Know Aman. But Khushi is not going to be interviewed. I don’t want her to suffer more. Deny the media personnel’s.”

He glances at Khushi who is stiff and cold at the poolside.

“Aman, I will call you back”

He hangs up and makes his way to the poolside. He stops behind her and scoops her in arms.
“Should I help you to change?” he whispers in her ears.

She denies and comes out of his arms. He pulls her back.
“Khushi, let it go. I know the matter is hot but you need to come out of it” he tries to explain.
“I wonder what they must be going through. All these years SG obeyed Anjali and never advanced towards revealing my identity to the world. And today, he gets to know that AJ was never his daughter. His wife hides such a big truth from him? And even AJ must have broken. She kept calling me illegitimate but she never knew that her birth is also similar. I pity both of them. However they are, whatever they did to me, I still feel connected to their pain Arnav.” Tears starts rolling down her cheeks.

Arnav wipes her tears from his thumbs and cups her face. She glances nervously in his eyes.

“You had yours. Now it’s their time to payback. You cannot snatch it from them” he explains.
She shakes her head. He is right. She can do nothing at this moment. Time will heal everything. Just like she has accepted the truth, they will do it too someday. She smiles weakly at Arnav for his thoughtful words and hugs him.

“Can I do something to ease your pain?” he murmurs enveloping her in his arms.
“Hmm”
He chuckles at her agreement and pulls back from the hug.
“I want to take you to bed” he recommends. She feels her cheeks heat up at his warm voice. She nods again giving him the permission to do so.

He carries her in his arms and takes her inside with full gratitude. Her heart almost stops when he places her on the bed and shuts the night lamps. They drift into another passionate night changing their mood back to normal.

***************

When Khushi opens her eyes in the morning, she feels disoriented. Arnav is not on the bed neither around her. Where can he go? She dresses up quickly and comes down. She finds him in the Gym. She never had this opportunity before to admire him when he is working out. Today is the best time. She leans at the door of the Gym room and keeps smiling every time his muscles move. There is a soft music played in the background, in the room and the best thing is her husband is only wearing his Track pants. It’s tickling to see him shirtless but she loves what effects it creates within her. She has never done any such exercise in her life but he is surely giving her complex now. His body is lean, well-shaped and toned. Why didn’t she notice all this in the past two nights? That time she was too busy in her own world of pleasure. She bites her lip and the next instant Arnav turns around, keeping the dumbbells back in their place. He is surprised to see his wife here.

“Good Morning” he whispers as he reaches her and carries her in his arms.

Khushi wraps her arms around his neck.

“Is this part of your exercise?” she asks.
“I can make that happen from today” he replies carrying her back to their bedroom. She feels elated to know his response.
“So, what’s your plan for today?” she murmurs resting her head on his chest.
“Taking a shower first and the rest we can discuss inside.”

Without dropping her anywhere in the room, Arnav carries her in the bathroom for a promising shower.

***************

“There is no question that I take a holiday today” Khushi replies to Arnav while brushing her wet hair. “I have to prepare a quick report of yesterdays event and present it to my Boss.” She adds.

Arnav’s face drops.

“I am hoping you take up my work seriously very soon. That will kill the distance between us during the day time”

His complaining nature is at its peak these days especially because he hates isolating from his wife. He wears his shoes. Khushi chuckles.
“Mr. Raizada, I am taking up work at your office, for managing your shows. I am not going to be around you 24*7 if that’s what you think”
“Whatever, I know how to keep you with me”

He wears the suit and then quickly gulps the juice, passing her the coffee.

“I will have it on way” she replies in hurry.

He stops her from moving away and hands her the coffee mug with a serious look in his eyes.
“No skipping meals, however late we are.”

Khushi rolls her eyes at him.
“Why did this rule come all of a sudden?”
“I want you to be healthy and gain some weight”

Coffee chokes in her throat. She stops drinking and looks at her husband with bewilderment.

“Gain weight? Why?”
“To grow some space for our child, whenever he or she is inside you” his voice turns huskier and his fingers automatically linger on her skin

She pushes him away shying.

“Your baby will accommodate in whatever space is inside, you stop worrying Daddy Raizada”

The way she addresses him makes him feel proud and needy of becoming a father soon. But he is not ready to share his wife yet. He wants her all for himself for a long period of time. She gulps the rest of the coffee while he picks his laptop bag. They both then leave for their respective work schedules.

***************

It’s been a week since Shashi Gupta’s birthday when such a huge revelation was made before the media. The whole society was aware what connection Khushi shares with Shashi. There were few gossips too in the office and the social parties but Khushi ignored all of those. She knew people will speak about this for a while and then forget it, ignore it. She cannot change the fact that she is Shashi Gupta’s illegitimate child so she decided to live with truth and accept it happily. Though she still has no plans to reconcile with her father.

Khushi winds up her work and gets down the Jashn Office, waiting for Arnav to pick her up. They have planned to take Arushi out for a movie. Fortunately, Arushi and Khushi share the same favorite actor whose movie has recently hit the theaters. According to the plan, Arnav is going to pick her first and then they will pick Arushi from Raizada Mansion.

Khushi checks her watch. Arnav can be here anytime. Suddenly she hears a woman’s voice calling out her name. The voice is familiar. She turns around and is shocked to see Anjali Jha looking at her. She stiffens.

“AJ? What are you doing here?”

Anjali comes forward. She looks very serious and hurt even today.
“I wanted to talk to you”
Khushi gulps.
“I don’t want to get into all that again AJ” Khushi strictly warns her.

“I won’t take much of your time. I promise”

Khushi feels the need in AJ’s eyes and tone to talk to her so she agrees.

“Fine”
Anjali smiles weakly.
“I am leaving to London tonight with Shyam and my Son” she reveals. “Forever”

Khushi is surprised. Forever?
“Forever? What is that supposed to mean?”
“I can’t stay here Khushi. I am not as bold and strong as you. I can’t meet Dad’s eyes. He is broken because of me. I should not have hurt him on his birthday.” Tears start coming out of Anjali’s eyes. “I tried to humiliate you and instead I got the major shock of my life which has humiliated me in my own eyes.”
“That one truth of your real identity doesn’t snatch the right you have on SG. You are his daughter, he always treated you like one. How can you leave him?”
“I have no right to be called as his daughter. My deeds have always proved to him how selfish I have been right from my childhood. He has taken enough pain and obeyed me. I had threatened him of killing myself if he discloses his relationship with you.”

Khushi gulps at that disclosure. So, this is why SG never accepted her before the world?
“You are his blood child. You have all rights on him, Khushi. I am sure you will take his responsibility some day. He needs you.”

Tears flow down Khushi’s eyes now.
“He needs you too” Khushi murmurs.

Anjali smiles with a sarcasm.
“He hates me for doing all of this and I have no remorse that he hates me now. I am bound to be hated after whatever I did to him, to you”

Khushi looks down to hide her tears. Anjali holds Khushi’s hand in hers.

“I don’t deserve it but I have to apologize for every misbehavior of mine. Please try to forgive me”

Khushi raises her head. She does not know if she can do that or not.
“I will try”

Even that three words from Khushi makes Anjali delighted. Arnav intrudes their conversation at this time. Anjali leaves Khushi’s hand and then meets Arnav’s eyes.

“Now I see why you could never leave Khushi, ASR. She is so good that no person will want to lose her”
Arnav doesn’t say anything. He only wraps his arm around his wife.
“God bless you both. Good bye”

Anjali turns to leave. Khushi gets emotional but she doesn’t react further. She keeps staring as AJ gets into her car and drives away.

“I have never seen her so emotive and sensitive” Arnav states.
“I hope she gets fine” Khushi replies
“She will. As far as I know her she is a very strong woman. And she has such a loving husband beside her. Shyam will take good care of her. I am sure”

Khushi smiles finally feeling lighter and relaxed. All these days after the party she was thinking how Anjali must be coping up with her new identity. Now she knows how deep impact it has created in her mind. She prays to God that AJ gets happiness again in her life because she has learnt a bitter lesson now and she will never forget that in her entire life.

“Arushi is calling frequently, shall we leave?” he asks her.

She nods and her smile is back on her face. She holds Arnav’s hand and they head to the car.


_______________________________________________________________________________


Part 70 (Last Part)

It’s been a month since Anjali has left for London. Khushi Singh Raizada has started working on her only new client, for the upcoming years… her husband. She is engrossed in working for his company’s next events. She is loving the work. It feels so much like home. She has her own cabin in AR office and Arnav is not very far from her. She can see him whenever she wants to. They eat together, travel back home together and time flies when they are home. Arnav has started learning to cook from his wife. He can make basic breakfast for two. She is glad that she could make her husband self-sufficed at least for times when she has to stay away from him, though that will not happen ever.

Arnav’s business is flourishing. The new building which AR bought, little away from the city, has started filling up with new recruits. Aman is promoted to his next level and he is handling the new staff very well in the new premises. Arnav had put most of his Savings at stake after detaching his Business from AJ and it seems like he has taken the right decision. He can see enough profit in the coming quarter.

Ayush – Arnav’s relationship has taken a new turn. Every weekend, Arnav and Khushi ensure to have dinner at the actual Raizada house with the family. Today, is one such weekend and like usual, Arnav cannot stop warning his wife, not to be gentle to people who taunts her unnecessarily.

“I won’t be gentle. Happy?” she replies.

Arnav shakes his head and parks the car beside his Father’s vehicle.

“I don’t believe you. In fact, what is the need of these weekend dinners together? Why did you even agree for it?”
“Arre..?? What is the harm in that? We don’t stay with the family, so such get togethers are necessary to keep us bonded” Khushi replies.
“Bonded? Really? From past 3 weeks Amrita Raizada is behaving typical. She just knows to taunt you and Tanvi, she is another sample. She is just waiting for my attention on her, which she never gets. What’s so special here?”

Khushi chuckles and pinches Arnav’s nose.
“Aww.. I like when you get mad at me, like old times” she stares in his eyes.

Arnav presses his lips into a thin smirk, leaning closer to her.
“I thought you like the New me”
She gets romantic too.
“I do like the new you but with a tinge of that old one. Just like the one you are now. Hot headed” she replies. He swallows hard at her sexy voice and lingers his finger over her lip but she pushes him away, giggles and gets down the car before he can catch hold of her.

“Khushi, I hate this. You instigate me and then..” he gets down too.
“Then what?” she asks hurrying to the entrance door.

Arnav follows her with quick steps. He pins her to the wall beside the main door. Fortunately, the main door is closed. Her eyes widen in shock.

“Arnav, what are you doing?”
“Hush” he places his finger on her lip, not allowing her to talk.

She finds him staring her face like a hungry hawk. Khushi closes her eyes, giving in to the moment. Arnav’s smirk changes into a huge grin. She opens her eyes in disappointment. He was playing with her? How dare he? She starts hitting him on chest.

“How could you do this? You almost had me and then left me? Why?”

He catches hold of her arms and pins them at her back.

“Now do you realize what I go through when you walk away?” he asks. His hoarse voice effective enough to convey his point. She pouts.
“Sorry”

Arnav already feels on heaven.
“Excuse me? I can’t hear you” he teases again.

Khushi knows what he wants. She quickly pecks his cheek and then utters again. “I am Sorry”. That’s her usual way of saying Sorry to him and he so much loves it. Arnav shies away. His wife knows how to ease his mood. Before they could get engrossed more into each other, Arushi opens the door. Khushi comes out of Arnav’s grip and hugs Arushi.

“You guys are late today. The food is ready. Come on” Arushi drags both of them in the house.

The food is served and everyone takes place at the table. Amrita is very low today, her expressions state that she is not in a mood to even mingle with anyone. Ayush and Daadi are very vocal, like always. Khushi feels the absence of Tanvi and immediately asks.

“Daadi, where is Tanvi?”
Arnav chokes the food in his mouth. Was that even necessary for his wife to ask? It is so much peaceful without her. Daadi smiles happily.
“She has gone back to Sydney. Her parents want her to look after the business there.”

Khushi’s jaw drops and Arnav is beyond excited.

“Cool. She can do something better than what she was here for.” He replies.

Now he understands why Amrita Raizada is so quiet.
“I am sure no one will miss her, except Mrs Raizada” he taunts looking at Amrita.

Khushi pinches his thigh so that he stops instigating that woman. Amrita pauses eating.
“Yes. I will miss her. And I am also happy that she is not running behind men who never thought about her.” Amrita replies.
“Exactly. Everyone deserves a special person in their life. She will soon find her special. You were simply keeping her tied to this house, giving her fake assurances. I am glad her eyes opened at the right time.” Arnav comments.

Khushi again pinches him on thigh and this time a worse one.

“Owwch. Khushi it hurts” he scowls.

Ayush and Daadi chuckle at their antics and continue eating. Ayush looks at Amrita as if reminding her something. Khushi notices it but fails to decipher. Amrita shakes her head and then stares at Arnav.

“There is something else that I want to share”

Arnav raises his head and pays attention.
“I know you have never accepted me as your mother, not that I ever tried to change that view of yours. Ayush has always kept explaining me to be cordial towards you if nothing more, but I failed him in even that.”

Arnav interrupts.
“What’s your point Mrs Raizada?”
“I want to apologize, that’s my point”
Ayush happily smirks but Arnav is not very interested in that.
“You don’t need to apologize to anyone, for anyone” he looks at his father. “If it makes dad happy that you and I stay at least cordial with each other, I am okay with it. But there are certain things which never change. Just like I can never accept you as my mother. I hope you should be okay with it”

His straight forward reply pricks Ayush somewhere but he knows what his son means. He can never give the place of his mother to anyone else, which seems fine. At least Amrita and Arnav will start behaving normal in each other’s presence. He is okay with that too.

“Thanks” Amrita takes a sigh of relief and everyone else continues eating. Khushi is happy that this cold war between the two has finally ended. She might not be able to convince Arnav to stay with his family, in this house, where all his memories are fresh, but she knows that time will come when such a thing might happen in future. She will wait for it.

“Oh my God.” Arushi yells checking the message on her phone.

Arnav looks at her with bewilderment.
“Anshuman is back from London. No ways” she screams again.

Khushi and Arnav look at each other. Anshuman is AJ and SHyam’s son. He is back to India? What is that supposed to mean? Is Anjali back too? Why? Are they back for SG? Is all okay with SG?
888
That night, Khushi is still in Arnav’s arms, both are wide awake after spending their little time in making love to each other. She is not like usual, she is silent and cold. He knows she is thinking something deeply. He wants to know that too. But before he could ask her, she starts talking to him.

“Arnav, I want to meet him once”
Arnav is little startled whom she wants to meet.
“If you are talking about Viraj, that’s a Big NO from me” he replies, pulling her closer, under the sheets.

Khushi frowns and hits once on his chest gently.

“Why will I want to meet him? It’s over. I am talking about SG”
“Hmm.”
“You wont mind that, would you?”
“Not unless you lose your mood again after returning back from the meet”

Khushi raises herself on her elbows and looks at his face.

“He is alone. We don’t even know how he is. He is a heart patient too. Not as his daughter, but on humanity grounds, I feel I should see him once” she comments.
Arnav keenly observes her face and nods.
“Is that a starting point of your relationship with him?”

Khushi swallows hard. He really asked something she doesn’t know yet.

“You mind?”
“I don’t, I am happy with whatever you decide to do in that matter. It is your choice to accept him, on humanity grounds or as a parent. I have no say.”

She pouts and hugs him back, keeping her head on his chest. He embraces her.
“I don’t want to decide that now. But I will meet him tomorrow.”
“Okay sweetheart, but for tomorrow to come, tonight should pass. Let’s sleep”
“Hmm” she closes her eyes and both drift to a peaceful slumber.
888
Shashi Gupta, after that incident when the whole world pointed him for his character, for having an illegitimate relationship, went into a depression. Even Anjali’s absence curbed more to his loneliness. The child whom he always adored and followed her orders was not his real blood. His first wife had deceived him with this one truth and the woman he loved, Garima Gupta, he could never do justice with her, thinking of his that deceiving wife and the baby whom his wife portrayed to be his and in all of this, the only one who suffered beyond repair was Khushi, his real child. His only child whom he could never nurture. He self-resigned from his political party in the need of being alone. His mind is too much messed up to think of the welfare of his people. He is a sinner and he want to punish himself.

He threw the medicines on the ground, the ones which his maid asked him to take as per the doctor’s advice.

“I don’t want medicines. Just leave me alone” he yells.

The maid picks the medicines and leaves. The moment she opens the bedroom door, she finds Khushi standing there, waiting to enter. The maid allows her in and closes the room door, behind her. Khushi looks at his pale face. He has reduced few kilos and has become weak. There are dark circles below his eyes and she knows he is not even sleeping properly. If he continues being like this, he will not live more. She comes forward. Shashi is shocked to see Khushi, here. He feels anxious to know why she is here, but the tears of guilt and remorse kills that excitement. He slowly gets up from the bed and is about to fall, when she catches hold of him and makes him sit on the bed again.

“Careful” her eyes become moist automatically. That’s the pain you get seeing your parent in this condition.
“I don’t deserve you. Just go back. Leave me like everyone else did. Like I left everyone. Go” he yells.

Khushi checks his body temperature and its burning high.

“You are unwell. Have you eaten anything? Let me call the maid and ask”

She is about to leave when he stops her.

“Let me die Khushi. I couldn’t keep anyone happy, now I don’t want people to mock at my sufferings”

Khushi feels pity. She kneels down at his feet.
“You can’t die. Not until you fulfil each and every punishment that you deserve.”
Shashi feels the prick in his heart but she is right. God won’t take him so easily until he completes his punishment. Khushi calls the maid and gets the medicines back. She forcefully makes him eat the medicines and checks his Doctor’s list of advises. It’s a long list.

“You have to take care of yourself. Don’t be negligent about your health. None of us wants to see you in this state”
“I don’t have anyone” he weakly replies.
Khushi gulps.
“You have me” she does not know why she said that. Tears start rolling down her eyes and Shashi shivers.
“I have you?” he asks. “No, why will you come to me? You should hate me for what I did. I don’t deserve anyone”
“Yes, you don’t. I know repentance is not just enough to forgive anyone. I might take ages to forgive you for your absence in my life. But I don’t want you to hide yourself in the layers of self-induced pain. If you ever cared for Anjali and me then do as I say. You were strong, be like one again. That will definitely get smiles on our faces forever.

Shashi feels a positive hope in her words.

“But Anjali left. She left me, Khushi. She does not take me as her father anymore. Did she forget me?”

Khushi nods a quick NO and looks at the door which opens immediately. Anjali Jha is standing there, with tears in her eyes. She rushes inside, hugs SG and starts crying.

“Sorry Dad, Sorry for doing all of this. I should not have left you alone. I am sorry”

Shashi is so happy that she is back. He has hated her for everything she did, right from creating distance between Khushi and him and the humiliation before the world. A father always puts his children’s mistakes back and forgives them. He has done the same. He kisses Anjali’s forehead.

“Don’t cry. I hate when you cry”

Anjali nods and hugs him again. Khushi is elated that she could unite them. After she took the decision yesterday night of meeting SG today, she first called up Anjali on her number. It was very easy to get her number through Arushi who is in the friendlist of Anshuman. Khushi discussed with AJ how they should be burying the differences they have with SG and accept him at this time when he is alone having no one beside him. AJ had agreed rapidly and loved the idea of reuniting with SG whom she had missed in the last one month when she was in London. That pull from her father was what got her back to India and she was finding ways to talk to SG and meet him.

“It was Khushi’s idea dad. She got us together again.” AJ confesses.

SG looks at Khushi with a fatherly warmth. He extends his arm for Khushi to hug him too. Khushi denies at first but then something churns in her body when she finds AJ smiling and coaxing her to embrace her father just like she has. She rushes in SG’s arms and AJ and SG completes the hug. Shashi promises himself to make his daughter’s proud again. He will do anything on his part, to keep them happy, always.
888
6 months later

“Rani Saheba, these are too many dishes. We are not inviting a dozen of people, its just Arnav and Khushi” Shyam says looking at the various dishes Anjali has just served on the dinning table.

“Shyam, you keep quiet. I had to research a lot to know what she likes.”

The bell rings and Anjali rushes to open the door for the invited couple. Shyam is totally happy to see this change in his wife. The woman who hardly cooked for him, has cooked all of this for Khushi, whom she takes as her loving sister now.

“Welcome” Anjali and Khushi share a quick hug. Shyam and Arnav shake hands. “Nice Saree” Anjali comments seeing the Black Designer Saree which Khushi is wearing.
“Thanks. Arnav bought it for me” Khushi shies.
“I thought so. Saw Shyam? That’s what husbands do. Shopping for wife” AJ teases Shyam who sighs in disappointment.
“Rani Saheba, you say as if I have never shopped for you”

Everyone laughs and gets seated on the couch. Anshuman comes down on his mother’s call and greets them.

“Hi Maasi (Mother’s sister)” Anshuman greets Khushi who is totally surprised to be called by that name.
“Hi Anshu”
“You didn’t get Arushi? I thought she is called too” he asks.
“She is out with her mother and father for Kashmir, on a small vacation” Arnav replies.
“Family outing? That’s nice. Why didn’t you both join them?” Shyam asks.

Arnav glances at Khushi once and then replies.
“My wife didn’t want to miss this dinner invitation from her sister. Her call !!” he replies.

Khushi hits him on leg while Anjali feels overjoyed that she cancelled other plans for this invitation. She passes a thankful nod to Khushi who shrugs it and heads with Anjali to serve the food on the table. Life has taken a different and pleasant turn now. She has a sister, a father and such a loving and tiring husband who keeps loving her so much that she worries how much she can load within her. She already feels overweight by his pouring love. And yes, by that she remembers to ask Anjali about her father. Both of them are busy serving their respective husband’s plates while Arnav and Shyam are discussing business.

“Anjali, I talked to Paapa yesterday, he was sounding better than before. He is even meeting his people again, socializing. That’s a good sign.” Khushi tells.
“Yes, after politics, now he is showing interest in public welfare. Just wait and watch, he is not someone who will sit at home.”

Khushi is happy with that thought. She and Anjali have made a point from last few months to visit SG once every week personally and ensure he is doing fine, his phone calls to both his daughters are everyday routine though.

After a wonderful dinner, Arnav and Khushi bid bye to the Jha couple and head back to their home. Arnav is driving when he suddenly chuckles as if recollecting something.

“Why are you smiling?” she asks curiously.
“AJ was asking me when we are giving her the news of our baby.”

Khushi shies away and looks at her husband who glances at her too.
“She says she wants someone to call her Maasi” Arnav adds. “It is so strange. The same woman who wanted to use our child as a bait now wants to love and protect him/her. Feels like a dream.” He continues.

Khushi leans over him and quickly kisses his cheek. Arnav loves the effect it creates on his skin.

“Car kiss? Not bad” he utters.

She pushes him away and sits back on her seat.
“So, mummy Raizada, what do you say? When are you going to fulfil your sister’s wishes?” he asks.
Khushi giggles.
“Seriously, Arnav? Are you ready to share me?”
“I would like to share you with our child. I can let that happen” his reply fits her expressions perfectly. She shies, blushes and then becomes totally cold and nervous. Arnav parks the SUV at their home, beside Khushi’s posh red Mercedes which she loves to drive at work every day. Both get down.

“When are we starting a family, then?” his voice turns hoarse. She feels a pit in her stomach. Not that she is unprepared for this. She wants to complete their family too.
“What about the pending AR events which I am looking after?” she lazily asks, fiddling with his shirt buttons.
“AR can hire your substitute till you recover and hold back the position”

She shakes her head as if liking the idea.

“In that case, Daddy Raizada” she wraps her arms around his neck. “Let’s grow our family” she replies in the same husky tone like his.

She has never seen Arnav shying and when he does today, after hearing her, she feels like she has achieved something priceless. He scoops her in his arms and carries her inside their heaven, their home.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Epilogue


Khushi Singh Raizada, comes out of the office in San Fransisco, where she had come to plan another event of AR, who is expanding their Business here. When initially she had accepted this proposal, her husband was totally against it, considering how frequently she will have to keep visiting this place, leaving him alone in India. While she waits for the cab to pick her and take her back to Hotel where is staying with her team, she recollects that heated discussion between her and Arnav which happened a month ago.

“Send your best man there. You don’t need to travel” Arnav says taking off his suit.

Khushi rolls her eyes.
“My best team cannot handle everything alone there. I need to go. And it’s just a matter of two weeks” she argues.
Arnav blocks her way when she tries to reach the closet. They both have just returned from work and are extremely tired.

“Stop arguing over this”
“It’s you who is arguing Arnav. This is my Job. I have to ensure the Event is best. You are my Client.”
“So, I have the authority to decide who should go there and who should stay back here” he defends seriously.

Khushi scoffs. She knows he is not going to back out.

“Don’t do this, Arnav. If you were so adamant to send me away from you, why did you expand your Business in San Fransisco?”
Arnav grits his teeth.
“So, you won’t listen to me” he confirms again.

She does not reply to that but her eyes approve it. He nods impassively and heads to the bathroom. Khushi feels bad for hurting his sentiments. But this is something they both have to adjust too. She knocks the bathroom door.
“Arnav, please. Don’t be mad at me only because I have work to do. When you go abroad for your work, did I ever stop you?”

He opens the door of the bathroom and looks at her. He is Shirtless and Khushi already feels her body sensing it.

“I always gave you a choice to accompany me whenever I go abroad. It’s you who never came with me. And I hardly go out for a day or two, unlike you.” Arnav replies.
“That’s because you go by your private Jet. You can fly and return at any time. I am not the CEO of this company. I have to fly with my entire team with whatever travel plans my company makes.”

Arnav clenches his jaw. Khushi knows he is angry and she does not want to infuriate him more. She steps in the Bathroom, almost hovering over him. He steps back, their eyes never left each other’s. She slides her arm lazily over his chest. He stops her by holding her wrist.

“This won’t work, Khushi” he mutters. She shuts the bathroom door by her leg and pins her husband to the wall behind.
Khushi smiles wolfishly at him.
“Can you just minus the anger right now because I am deadly serious to shower with my husband?” she utters far too sweetly for him to deny. All his anger is gone and he carries her in his arms.
“I can do that” he replies and takes her below the shower.

A car stops right before her but it is not the cab she is waiting for. Aman Mathur gets down the car and heads to her. Khushi is shocked to see Aman in San Fransisco.

“Aman? What are you doing here?”
“Hello Bhabhi” Aman replies. “I am here for work”
“Oh.!! Uh.. How is Arnav?” she asks.

During that lovely shower a month ago, Arnav had tried to convince her again, for not going to San Fransisco. He gave her all those temptations which she could hardly resist. But then the Professional woman inside her voiced out and she chose her work over her husband’s tempting ideas for these two weeks. And since then, Arnav chose to act very formal with her. She knew she had hurt him but he has to understand. If she has committed to something, she will fulfil it with all her mind and heart. And she knows he will understand, though he might take his own time. So, their conversations were restricted to only formal messages about work status and all the rest of the homely updates she got from Daadi and Arushi.

Now that Aman is here, Khushi decides to ask him how Arnav’s temper was these days.

“Boss is good. Busy!!” Aman responds.
His smile makes her believe he is up to something. But what?
“What is keeping him so busy that his number was unreachable last whole night?” she asks.
“Really? I could reach him. May be some international dialing issue” he shrugs this topic as if it didn’t mean much.

Khushi nods.
“Bhabhi, come let me drop you back to Hotel” Aman offers.
“No, I have booked a cab already”
“Bhabhi please” Aman insists and Khushi decides not to deny him. She gets in the car. As Aman drives, Khushi decides to enquire more about her husband.

“Is he taking lunch on time?” Khushi asks.
“Not really. He skips it a lot. I have to keep reminding him.”

Khushi frowns. Why can’t he take care of himself? She knows why he is doing this, to show her that he needs her all the time to look after him.
“He misses you Bhabhi. A lot” Aman adds.

That gets a blush on her face. She misses him too, in fact more than he could ever understand. Does she think she can stay here happily? Every day and night that she is spending here from past 2 weeks is not less than a decade for her. This is the first time that she has stayed for such a long time away from him. Otherwise, the rest of her trips were not more than a week.

While she is lost in her own world, Aman drives and parks the car in few minutes to another Hotel. Khushi comes out of her stance.

“Aman? Where are we? This is not the Hotel where me and my team are staying”
“I know. But ASR has sent you a small gift” Aman says while opening her side door.
“Gift?” Khushi gets down.
“Yes Bhabhi. Please come”

Aman leads her to the hotel lobby. Khushi is not very happy with this idea.

“He couldn’t talk to me nicely in the past few days and instead of handling that, he sent me a gift?” she groans in frustration. “He won’t change. He still thinks he can impress me by his money”

Aman does not answer to that. He takes the key from the Receptionist and gives it to Khushi.
“Room No 1511”
Khushi rolls her eyes.
“My gift is in a room? Why?”
“Its huge. So. Now come on don’t waste your time here. I will call ASR and inform him that you are on way to your gift”

Saying that Aman leaves and Khushi looks angrily at the room keys. Her husband really has unique ways to torture her. She heads for the elevator and waits for it to come. When the elevator door opens, a young couple inside, stops kissing and head out. Khushi feels extremely jealous. It’s such a tease to see people loving each other and here her husband is not even giving her a call. By the way, this scene also reminds her one such holiday she had thoroughly enjoyed with Arnav Singh Raizada.

Arnav had lied to her about having a Business conference and took her to Maldives. He had falsely made some papers to show that her presence is needed there to discuss the event which might have to be held, in case the client is ready for the Fashion Show. It was only when they reached Maldives, she got to know there was no such client and no event to be organized. He just wanted to take her on a surprise vacation. It was one of those moment when after sun-bathing on the beach, they both were returning back to their room, and were in the Elevator when one such honeymoon couple were kissing each other. Khushi had shied seeing them but Arnav showed no signs of uneasiness and the moment that couple were out of the elevator on the 4th floor, and the elevator doors closed, Arnav had kissed her passionately, without any warning. That was one such kiss she would never forget in her life. Sometimes seeing others, you too get motivated, that was his state of mind that day.

With those memories in mind, Khushi gets out of the elevator on the 15th floor, scanning for the respective room. She finds the corner room to her left and hurries to open the door and check what gift her husband has sent for her. Doesn’t matter how much he is angry on her, he never forgets to show his affection in some way or the other. But instead of this gift, she would have loved if he had come all the way himself. She unlocks the door and gets inside. The room has semi lights and its enough for her to see the glowing candles everywhere inside. Where is her gift? As she gets further in, she finds a small note on the bed. She picks it up and reads it to herself.

‘I hate when you go away. But that only reminds me how much I love you’

Khushi’s cheeks immediately color up. Yes, these little distances between them reminds their love for each other. Suddenly a pair of arms slide around her waist and she doesn’t feel alien anymore. He is here. Her husband is here. That’s her gift. Arnav leans on her shoulder placing a gentle peck there.

“I missed you baby” he whispers.

She leans back on his shoulder, putting her entire weight on him, entwining her fingers with his. He is still holding her on waist and breathing hard.

“I thought you are still angry” she speaks.
“That I am” he replies

She is amused and turns back to see him. He is grinning. Arnav Singh Raizada grins a lot these days.

“If you are still mad at me, why did you come here?” she asks.
“To punish you for leaving me and your son all alone there” he replies.

That’s how she is reminded of her son, Aarav.
“Aarav? Where is Aarav? How could you leave him there alone with Daadi and others? He needs at least one of us” she starts scolding.
Arnav places a finger on her lip to shut her up.
“Aarav is here. With me”

Khushi smiles happily. She missed her son equally.

“He is here? Where? Who else is here? I will go get him”

She is about to get out of his hold but he drags her again towards him.

“He is sleeping now. Jet lag you see. And don’t worry, AJ is looking after him” Arnav clears her doubts.
Khushi is stunned.
“AJ? Is she here? Why?”
“You forgot? We are Business partners again?”

Oh yes!! She had almost forgot that. Arnav and AJ reunited their Business and everything is running smoothly for them. Arnav would have handled his own set of work but AJ needed a support and Arnav decided to help her. After all she is his sister-in-law too.

Before she could ask him more questions about how the family is doing, Arnav pulls her with him on the bed and hovers on top of her.

“Its been ages making love to you” he murmurs and she forgets the rest of the world for next few hours.

****************

The next morning, she wakes up by the feel of Arnav’s lips on her cheek. When she opens her eyes, she finds her husband sitting next to her and admiring her. Is she in heaven? The sight of her husband, that too early morning, after so many days is not less than heaven. Plus, how can he look extra handsome in the morning time? Without brushing? Without even washing his face? He strokes her face with his thumb and then kisses her once.

“Happy Birthday Khushi”

Birthday? Oh Yes, it’s her birthday today. No wonder he came all the way here to celebrate. She slowly gets up and hugs him.

“You are the best gift I have ever received on my birthday”
“Fair point made Mrs. Raizada. Now let’s get showered before everyone hops in our room to wish you.” He replies.

“Everyone? Who all have come?”
Arnav smiles sheepishly. He is hiding something.
“You will see”

He drags her to the bathroom and both quickly come out showered and dressed. Aman had picked Khushi’s bag from the other hotel and got it here last evening.

“I will go get Aarav” she says and is about to leave when the door bell rings. She hurries to open it. AJ is standing with 5-year-old Aarav beside her. The moment Khushi sees him, she hugs him and takes him in her arms. He is totally on his father in looks.

“My handsome boy. Woke up now?”
“Yes Mom” he kisses her cheek “Happy birthday Mom. You are best mom in this world” he hugs her again. Khushi is overwhelmed by his wish. It’s really an honor to be appreciated by your kids especially when they are so small.
Her eyes become moist with happy tears. Arnav comes to them.
“Aarav, where is the gift you made for mom?”
“Oops. It’s in Arushi aunty’s room. I will get it”

Aarav runs out

“Aarav slow. Don’t run” Anjali screams but he doesn’t listen. He knocks the room door of his Arushi Aunty who is now 23 years old and much matured and lovable than before. Khushi gets up and meets her sister, Anjali Jha, who is waiting patiently for her turn to come up.

“Happy Birthday Sis” AJ hugs her.
“Thank you. Its such a wonderful surprise to have you all here. Who all have come?”
“Everyone. Your father in law, mother in law, Daadi, Arushi, Shyam, my Son Anshuman and Paapa too”
“And Aman” Arnav adds up.

Khushi is way beyond happy that her husband could get everyone here only to celebrate her birthday.

“And Khushi, please look after your husband. You guys don’t fight because if you do, he takes out that anger on us. He gets crankier than Aarav” Anjali complains.
Arnav stands behind Khushi, draping his arms around her waist. Khushi roughly strokes his stubble.

“I have sorted his mood now, didn’t I?” she asks looking at him, reminding him of last night.
He nods in agreement.
“I have talked to your team, they will be taking care of todays work without you, and evening, they will be here before you cut the cake.”

Khushi gets excited.
“You guys have seriously planned all of this? I am impressed sweetheart” she kisses Arnav’s cheek and Anjali clears her throat.
“My god!! Have some shame guys. I am still here and you have a Son who will return with his gift anytime. You behave like typical honeymooners”

Khushi shies again but Arnav is still getting cozy. Anjali goes out to see if Aarav found the gift in Arushi’s room or not. Khushi then turns to her husband who is admiring her still.
“I sometimes don’t realize when these few years passed with you” she strokes his face. “Nani must be praising you for sure, wherever she is”
Arnav quickly nuzzles his nose with hers.
“Stop getting so emotional. I am here to see you smile, not cry”

Aarav comes inside the room with a handmade greeting card.

“Mom”
Khushi takes him inside and Arnav closes the door.
“That’s for you. I made it.”

Khushi appreciates the handmade greeting card which Aarav has painted so well. He loves colors and painting. He has got most of his hobbies matching with his father, but this one matches with hers.

“This is incredible. You rock Aarav”
“You liked it Mom”
“Of course, baby. Come here. Give mumma a hug” he hops into Khushi’s arm and hugs her. Khushi caresses his head and murmurs to Arnav. “He needs a haircut and you need a shave”
Arnav smiles and hugs his wife and son together.
“We need you more”

Oh!! She is again in heaven. Her husband has really shown her heaven by being so lovable.

****************

A private party is organized downstairs. Khushi blows the candles and cuts the cake. She feeds Arnav and Aarav and then they feed her too. Arushi keeps clicking pictures and then she hands the camera to Anshuman and heads to wish to Bhabhi and feed her the cake. Shashi is relaxing with Ayush and Amrita. They have started bonding well these days. Shashi Gupta after resigning from politics is still a social service man. He is running an NGO and is very happy with it. Anshuman and Arushi’s cat fights are still the same, its just that they have little decency now in their verbal communication with each other. They both have joined Medical field and want to become a Doctors. Amrita is much docile and engaging than she was 7 years ago. She has considered them as her family now. The most important thing is that, after Aarav was born, they shifted back to the actual Raizada house and started staying together. Daadi is getting old but she is not very complaining. She has a whole bunch of her family members to look after her. Shyam is as usual a happy go lucky man. He still loves his wife very much and can put all her mistakes back.

Khushi’s entire team wishes her and then the music begins. Aarav is sitting with Arushi and Anshuman who are pampering him with his favorite sweets. And he is not diabetic like Arnav. He is allowed to have as much as sweets as he wants, again a trait of his mothers.

Arnav holds the glass of Champagne and gives it to Amrita.

“Mom, your Champagne” he hands it to her.

Arnav has started accepting Amrita as his mother now. He no more calls her Mrs. Raizada. That terms is strictly copyrighted for Khushi now.

“Whose call?” he asks his mother.
“Tanvi” she replies with a teasing smile. “Wish to talk?”
Arnav smirks at his mother for still teasing him with that woman’s name.
“No way. Tell her to concentrate on her husband Vikas and plan a baby soon” Arnav replies and heads back looking for his wife.
Amrita chuckles at his answer and continues talking to Tanvi, giving her Arnav’s message. Tanvi has finally settled with another Businessman and she is happy in her marriage.

Khushi is alone, looking at her entire family when someone pats her shoulder. She looks behind and is surprised to see her friend Naina here.

“Naina? You again in San Fransisco?”

Naina was the same friend who had met her 7 years ago in San Fransisco, when she was going to open the envelope from Arnav Singh Raizada, which contained the tickets to India with a Note mentioning her to come back to him and that they can renegotiate the marriage vows.

“Yes, with my husband Khushi. Business tour” she replies. “And you?”
“I am here on work. But then my husband got his family here to celebrate my birthday”
“Its today? Oh wish you happy birthday Khushi”

They hug again. Naina is impressed seeing Khushi’s changed lifestyle/

“I have seen you on papers. You are a very fine Event Manager now. So many awards and all, huh?”

Khushi smiles.
“It wouldn’t have been possible without Arnav’s support. I took a break during pregnancy and resumed when Aarav was 3”
“Aarav? Your Son?”
“Yes. There he is” she points out to Aarav who is with Anshuman and Arushi.
Naina chuckles.
“He is just like Arnav Singh Raizada”
True” Khushi replies with pride.

Arnav finally manages to find Khushi and he comes to her.

“Baby, where were you? You are the birthday girl, don’t go missing” he kisses her forehead.
Khushi feels shy when he does that before her friend. She quickly introduces the two.
“Arnav, my friend Naina”

Arnav quickly recollects she is the same woman whom Khushi planned to stay with after she had returned to India and didn’t like the idea of staying in the same roof where he was residing.
“Hello Naina. Please join us for this party”
“Sure, I will. Thanks”

Arnav turns back to his wife.
“Come soon”
“I will”

He leaves and Naina proudly comments over everything.

“Khushi, 7 years back I had met a lonely woman who was troubled in her marriage, but look at you now. You got everything right.”

Khushi nods in agreement.
“I couldn’t have asked for more Naina. I misjudged everything and walked out of my marriage without giving it time and patience. I am really glad that it didn’t turn out worst. No one can love me like Arnav does.”
“Lucky you. Now go and enjoy the party. I will look for my husband and get him here”

Naina leaves and Khushi keeps admiring every family member present here. All are happy, contented with their life, together. The loop is finally closed. Arnav comes to her again and drags her on the dance floor. Everyone cheers for them as he swirls her gently and continues with a slow dance. All eyes are glued to them.

“I was just thinking, how about a second baby?” Arnav asks.

Khushi rolls her eyes. Arnav pulls her chin to meet her eyes again.
“Aarav is at the right age to have siblings”
Khushi does not say anything. Arnav reads her face and then drops the plan.
“If you are not willing to, I am okay”
“It’s not that I am not ready. But is this because you want me to stay back home?”

Arnav tightens his grip on her waist.

“I have many other ways to keep you at home. I will never get a baby’s excuse for that”
Khushi pouts for her illogical thinking.
“I will think about it” she replies with a cheesy smile.
“You will?”
“I will” she leans her head on his chest and they continue dancing on the floor, while their family cheers seeing them together.


The End.